Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have acquired various insights. London is an energetic metropolis that presents a plethora of housing choices and a multitude of communities. Students have myriad options to consider. Both accommodations for students and private rentals include alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, along with their features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I intended to keep travel costs low, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare guidelines of each train service provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, effectively lowering our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds of similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially amid exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connection to their native countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London are dictated by personal interests and requirements. When on the search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.