Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have spent nine months residing in London. Although this is not a long duration, I’ve acquired some observations during my time here. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its diverse housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have numerous avenues available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange to view apartments, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the opportunity to explore possible housing options from afar, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, my focus was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to curtail travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the specific fare structure of each train operator. The major tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly alleviated costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations in hopes of connecting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a complex decision. London’s ethnic communities constitute a key element of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few samples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.