Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its lively neighborhoods. Students have a wide range of alternatives available. Both student housing and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel costs as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I started university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, considerably lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for familiarity with their native land. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.