Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a dynamic city, offering not only a variety of housing choices but also a mix of diverse communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both shared accommodations and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Residents from the UK can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, featuring facilities and closeness to public transport.
While looking for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies both city navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce travel costs, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have enhanced the affordability of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Major tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations with the hope of meeting peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a mix more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic enclaves are key to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, set in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, immerse yourself in cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.