Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of opportunities right at their fingertips. Both university housing and private lodgings provide a variety of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, examine available amenities, and discover nearby transport links.
During my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement throughout the city and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zone travel can climb to £5.25 each day. I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university enabled us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they provided opportunities to meet peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting a range of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home culture within London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and spirited music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for staying in London vary according to your preferences and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing prospects, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.