Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it isn’t a lengthy span, I’ve acquired some valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer a broad range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, including the facilities available and distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones convenient. To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, 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 fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, substantially lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London showcases a significant South Asian population, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When searching for new accommodations 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.