Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy period, I’ve acquired some knowledge along the way. London is an energetic city, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its myriad communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both dedicated student housing and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can swiftly organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, featuring details on amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation across zones. Personally, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube to minimize travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 a day for inter-zonal journeys. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside the central zones, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I had a university friend with whom I decided to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that can be more challenging to find in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s various ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich blend of different neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean cultural scene and lively music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal neighborhoods to reside in London hinge on personal tastes and requirements. When seeking a new place to call home in London, appreciate the variety and vibrancy of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.