Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students can select from options like student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, review amenities, and discover public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing model of the train company. Central London entails high living expenses due to its attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which can be 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, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and an energetic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is known for its Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London are influenced by your preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace its varied accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.