Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear as an extended duration, I have gathered some observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not only regarding its varied housing options but also for its dynamic neighborhoods. Students are presented with a myriad of choices right at their doorstep. Student residences and private rentals provide an array of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse their prospective accommodations online, including the amenities available and the distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have notably reduced university commute costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate in areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones that are not central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operating firm. The significant expenses of living near Central London’s major attractions are notable. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a complex decision. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial component of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native country within this city. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. While searching for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation selections, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.