Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not seem extensive, I have garnered valuable knowledge during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, rich in its array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student residences and private rentals present various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, complete with details on amenities and ease of access to public transportation.
When I was searching for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, popular gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can be as high as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered the costs of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is no easy task. The ethnic communities within London are vital to its cultural identity, offering a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of comfort reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.