Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I commemorated nine months of residing in London. While this time frame may not be extensive, I have accumulated considerable knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a myriad of choices. Both educational housing and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review facilities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London arise from its numerous attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodation, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics, a challenge in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was imperative for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during busy exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s cultural communities are vital to its social fabric, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries 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 renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End presents a plethora of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this exceptional city offers.