Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its diverse housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, complete with amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my pursuit of a place to live, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is classified into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have reduced commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. The fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high cost of living near central London’s main attractions is notable. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are a key component of its cultural identity, offering a plethora of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of living arrangements, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.