Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Though this duration might seem brief, I have gained some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its array of housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom let international students examine their prospective residences online, along with conveniences and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I was keen on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the primary and secondary zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and transit across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing between zones could cost as much as £5.25 a day. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these lines differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which is a blend less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek out a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal neighborhoods for residing in London are dictated by your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.