Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this is not an extensive duration, I’ve gathered a few insights. London is a vibrant city, not solely for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services encompass regions 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 features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably reducing rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist alongside more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall, in West London, has a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant locale filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of communal neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.