Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it hasn’t been an extensive duration, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its rich communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, review amenities, and identify the closest public transport links.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the northernmost areas being the most central. London’s transportation network is exceptional, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I prefer walking shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones that lie outside of central London. Depending on distance and the fare policies of the various train companies, charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ. Central London is home to numerous major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a situation that would have proven challenging through private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver when running errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are an integral aspect of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Most international students in London search for connections to their own country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods in London to reside in hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.