Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I have gained some perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, offering a plethora of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students find themselves with a myriad of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present various selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, examine the amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, I sought to rent a room in Central London in order to remain close to key attractions, social spaces, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones seamless. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside Central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
Determining the best neighborhoods to reside in London is contingent on personal interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.