Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, it has granted me valuable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse future lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and determine access to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between regions. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses since moving between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys vary according to distance and each train company’s fare policies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its many prominent attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shopping facilities such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich assortment of diverse areas. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture within the city. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place in this city, welcome the diversity and abundance of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary metropolis.