Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, notable not just for its wide variety of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an array of alternatives available to them. Student residences as well as private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, complete with details on amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my housing search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first and second being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and traveling across zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made journeys to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and fare structures set by each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its key attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse areas. Many international students search for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, located in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean populace and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The top neighborhoods in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.