Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained some valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not solely due to its wide array of housing choices but also because of its various communities. International students enjoy an abundance of options. Both institutional housing and private residences feature alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in assessing potential lodgings online, verifying facilities, and evaluating distance to public transport.
While searching for my accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a robust public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for straightforward movement and travel between zones. I made it a point to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The high cost of living in Central London can be attributed to its major attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending the university significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural scene, creating a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home nation. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.