Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have acquired valuable knowledge during this time. London is a dynamic city, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with an abundance of options. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange for apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, complete with amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to mingle with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a diversity less commonly found in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the familiarity of their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London are based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.