Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city with a variety of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with multiple choices right at their fingertips, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse future accommodations online, review amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay in proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s remarkable transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and commuting across zones. To minimize travel expenses as inter-zone travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and fare structures of train companies. The high living costs in Central London are offset by sharing a room with a university friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be overwhelming. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for environments reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is home to numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, revel in the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.