Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a vast array of housing choices and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous options available to them, including student residences and private lodgings featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, assess facilities, and identify local public transport connections.
While looking for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. Eager to lower travel expenses, as cross-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in central London stem from its major attractions. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural identity, resulting in various neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of home while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples illustrate just a portion of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the city’s diversity and abundance of accommodation options, traverse cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.