Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While the time has been brief, I’ve gained several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its multitude of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have ample options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide a range of amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing options online, review facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and travel between areas. I intended to keep travel expenses low, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the underground network, serving regions beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Standard supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses a difficult challenge. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native country. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.