Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant sites, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two at the core. London features a top-notch transport network, integrating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I was keen to lower travel expenses, as moving between zones can accumulate costs of £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The proximity of major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably decreased our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies close by helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a richly diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the midst of London’s West End is a bustling hub with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented areas.
The ideal neighborhoods for residing in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.