Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I hit the milestone of nine months living in London. While nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained some insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, not solely due to its wide-ranging housing options but also because of its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, assess the facilities, and find the nearest public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I wanted a room for rent in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can run up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare policies. Central London is home to major attractions, causing living expenses to soar. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, so we opted to share a room, drastically reducing our rent costs. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, seeking to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comforts of home in this city. Southall, located in West London, has a considerable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.