Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London thrives with energy, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also its dynamic neighborhoods. Students enjoy a multitude of options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private 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 homes online, including available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize bus or tube services. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and fare regulations of each train operator. Central London presents major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend at university, which significantly reduced our rent. I sought intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a task that might have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities constitute an essential aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a spirited enclave filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of the community neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety in accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.