Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has recently been nine months since I began my stay in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I’ve acquired several insights. London is a vibrant city, not only for its assorted living arrangements but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a wide range of options available. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future residences online, including the facilities provided and their distance to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize my commuting expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential locations like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for daily tasks, especially during exam sessions.
Choosing the right neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London play an essential role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home countries when in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These examples represent just a few of the community areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.