Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem short, I have gained valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its array of housing choices but also by its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to peruse potential accommodations online, including their features and proximity to public transportation.
In my search for lodging, I specifically aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central regions. London boasts an outstanding transport system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, given that traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. In addition, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London inflate living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation costs significantly. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, creating a vibrant mosaic of distinct neighbourhoods. Many international students seek to replicate the environments of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling zone filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as merely a few instances of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.