Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London buzzes with life, not just due to its variety of housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students can choose from a wide range of alternatives. Student accommodations as well as private rentals present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible housing online, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transit.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for easy navigation and travel between the zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones away from central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. Living expenses in central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us save significantly on rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich tapestry of diverse areas. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.