Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve acquired several insights during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its vast array of housing options but also for its rich cultural diversity. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private lodgings present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
While I was on the hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to prominent attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make it easy to navigate between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private housing.
Living close to 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. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s cultural communities are a significant aspect of its societal framework, presenting a rich variety of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home nation. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods for residing in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.