Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its extensive range of housing selections but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and privately rented spaces offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, examine amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports easy movement and travel between these zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can reach £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the options provided by the oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The costs of living in Central London due to its major attractions can be steep. Thankfully, university attendance with a friend allowed us to share accommodation and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in privately rented homes.
It was essential for me to live near supermarkets. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can prove to be challenging. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections reminiscent of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and needs. When looking for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.