Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe might seem brief, I have gathered some perspectives along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, celebrated not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing present diverse alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, highlighting the amenities available and the distance to public transport.
During my search for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases navigation and travel across zones. Personally, my goal was to mitigate travel expenses since inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 on a daily basis. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground framework, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance traveled and the fare structures set by each operating train company. The major attractions in Central London account for elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to co-rent a room, which significantly lessened our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a demographic mix that is challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a diverse array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese dining places, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to stay in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.