Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options and a variety of communities. Students face countless choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students might utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for future housing online, examining amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to move around and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as crossing zones can result in costs as high as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The abundant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university accompanied by a friend, and we opted to share a room, thereby significantly lowering rent expenditures. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to indispensable stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps conserve time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community locales.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.