Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive timeframe, I have acquired several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its range of lodging choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s tougher to find in private residences.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during assessment periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not straightforward. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural profile, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for hints of their home country in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community areas.
The best neighborhoods for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.