Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have abundant choices available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals present diverse options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in previewing potential homes online, assessing amenities, and discovering nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the closest to the center. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could incur charges as high as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have proven to make university commutes more economical. Also, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside the city’s core. Tickets for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which resulted in considerable savings on rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to encounter in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. The predominant supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant quarter filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to live in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. In your search for a new home in the city, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.