Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not sound like a long period, I’ve gained various insights throughout this experience. London is an energetic city, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its culturally rich communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, check available facilities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to major attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as journeys between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services cover areas outside the Underground network, accessing zones beyond Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to steep living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds—a scenario less likely in private properties.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was very important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural vibrancy, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find familiarity with their native cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity and variety of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.