Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I have gained substantial knowledge. London’s vibrancy stems from its wide array of housing options and its bustling communities. Students have numerous alternatives readily available. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, including features and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card offerings have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and share my age group, which might have been challenging with private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is quite complex. The ethnic communities in London constitute an integral aspect of its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal neighborhoods for living in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.