Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months living in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to reside, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 a day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.