Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including features and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most proximate. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to travel and navigate between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily; therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Prices for these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, drastically lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, creating a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts a prominent Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music atmosphere. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End stands out as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples highlight just a few of the neighborhood communities.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a place to call home in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this outstanding city.