Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is relatively short, I have acquired various insights during my stay. London is an energetic city, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student living arrangements and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, along with details on amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is sectioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs near Central London’s main attractions can be a challenge. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to locate in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a vast array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the middle of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing choices, investigate its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city provides.