Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may be brief, I’ve gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students find a wide array of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, evaluate amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to principal attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and movement between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones could amount to £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone transportation fluctuate according to distance and each train operator’s fare framework. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age bands, a blend often more difficult to achieve in private homes.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity from their native countries while in London. Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London depend on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.