Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve gathered various perspectives throughout this interval. London stands out as a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing prospects online, including the amenities and their proximity to public transport.
During my search for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city encompasses six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement and travel across the zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk for shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to zones outside the core of London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London, hosting significant attractions, leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend while attending university, which notably reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London form a crucial part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity from their home country while living in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.