Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students enjoy numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, assess the amenities, and identify the closest public transport connections.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room for rent in Central London to remain in proximity to major landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across and between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as transferring between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. With Central London housing significant attractions, living costs can be quite high. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, presenting an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the community-rich areas available.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London are dependent on your interests and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.