Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I have gathered some insights. London is dynamic, presenting a variety of housing options and communities. Students have numerous alternatives at their fingertips, ranging from student housing to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private quarters, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and access public transport routes.
During my search for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances. Options like the Oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. London Overground and National Rail cater to areas outside the Underground, with ticket prices differing based on distance and the train company’s pricing structures. The high living costs in Central London stem from its famous attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend at university, which significantly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, which can be more challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, showcasing diverse locales. Many international students yearn for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a hub for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most favorable neighborhoods in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace its varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the city’s convenience and vibrancy.