Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis that provides an extensive range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Domestic students can effortlessly set up viewings for apartments, whereas international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables seamless navigation and travel between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys may cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which is less common in private settings.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural diversity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek aspects of their home country’s culture while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing options, explore cultural hubs, and bask in the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.