Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although nine months might not appear lengthy, I have acquired considerable knowledge in this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, enriched not just by its varied housing options but also by its lively neighborhoods. Students can find a wealth of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide an array of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, assess the amenities, and identify the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a robust transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies moving around and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central part of the city. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London, home to prominent attractions, tends to have elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled in university together with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, looking forward to meeting peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is rarer in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located at the core of London’s West End, offers a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for your new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vitality of its accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.