Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residence in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London thrives as a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide-ranging housing selections but also for its multicultural communities. Students enjoy numerous opportunities right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my housing search, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and transit across zones. I focused on minimizing travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students aspire to find a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End boasts a vibrant atmosphere with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of various community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.