Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a substantial amount of insight. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its energetic communities. Students have numerous selections available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide different choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, assess the amenities, and identify the nearest public transport connections.
As I searched for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and transit across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses because traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London’s significant attractions contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, so we shared a room and significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more difficult to achieve through private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comforts of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods in London to reside in depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.