Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem like an extended period, I have gathered some valuable experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, boasting a variety of living arrangements and active communities. Students have a wealth of options readily available, as both student housing and private rentals provide alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore potential housing arrangements online, showcasing available amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodations, I set out to lease a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel throughout the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, so I chose to stroll short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are driven by the proximity to major attractions. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we shared accommodations, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural essence, creating rich neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse and vibrant accommodation options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.