Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residency in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices, including student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
During my hunt for a living space, I set out to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, potentially reaching £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structures of each train company. The significant attractions in Central London lead to higher living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, markedly decreasing rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural richness, creating a diverse landscape of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diverse housing opportunities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.