Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I have gathered some insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous choices readily available. Both student residences and private rentals present a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to preview potential accommodations online, including amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts an efficient transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses—since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 a day—I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have also reduced commuting costs to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London, home to significant attractions, tends to incur higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a balance that’s often harder to achieve in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mix of diverse localities. Many international students seek a taste of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to stay in London largely depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.