Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not seem like an extensive period, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied housing selections but also by its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer multiple options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future lodgings online, along with the facilities available and closeness to public transit.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I was keen to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on the distance and fare system of each train operator. Central London hosts numerous landmarks, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, being at university with a friend allowed us to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less common in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population with numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.