Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students find an abundance of options available to them. Student residences and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
In my hunt for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts an impressive transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare schemes of each train operator. The high costs of living in central London are often due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, offering a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Most international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent only a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.