Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not merely due to its array of housing options but also because of its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have countless alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite bathrooms and suites, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, particularly since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare system. The expense of living near Central London’s major attractions can be high. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room and save considerable amounts on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near necessary stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural richness, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home cultures in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.