Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of insight. London is a bustling metropolis, famed not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous possibilities. Both university accommodations and private housing come with a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my pursuit of lodging, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigation and travel between the various zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses given that inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from different backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s tougher to find in private residences.
Being near grocery shops was important for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on chores, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The diverse ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a colorful enclave filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residing in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.