Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an animated metropolis, renowned for its wide-ranging living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students are presented with countless options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential living spaces online, complete with amenities and proximity to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social places, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation system is outstanding, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services operate in areas beyond the Underground scope, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London boasts major attractions, which contribute to steep living costs. Luckily, I was in university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating interactions with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time during errands, especially in exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood comes with its complexities. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home culture while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal neighborhoods in London for living hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.