Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained ample insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing selections but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous options at their disposal. Both student accommodations and private residences provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential lodgings online, encompassing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for residence, I desired a room in Central London to remain in proximity to significant sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses key attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and age ranges, a diversity harder to encounter in private lodgings.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents numerous Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for residing in London hinge on your individual interests and requirements. While hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the multiculturalism and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.