Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As of late, I’ve completed nine months residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present a range of choices, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transit options.
While I was on the hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, which would keep me close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have facilitated more budget-friendly commutes to university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into outer zones of London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London, being home to major sights, drives living expenses up. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, enabling us to share a room and considerably reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aimed at connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age range, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines grocery runs, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood is a complex task. The ethnic communities of London form an integral aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for elements reminiscent of their home nation within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with a variety of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community areas.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness found in its accommodation selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.