Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not merely for its various housing options but also for its rich array of communities. Students have a plethora of selections available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, along with details about amenities and public transport connections.
As I looked for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London features a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and transit between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on the distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London arise from its major attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and age ranges, a blend that is less prevalent in private rentals.
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 essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and stores for traditional attire. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-filled neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods in London to reside in hinge on your interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vitality of this extraordinary city.