Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Even though it’s a relatively brief period, I’ve gained some insights. London is lively, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students enjoy numerous choices available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodation and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and 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 virtually explore potential housing, assess amenities, and access public transport links.
During my housing hunt, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 on a daily basis. I opted to walk shorter routes rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have reduced the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. With numerous major attractions, living costs in Central London tend to be elevated. Luckily, I shared accommodation with a friend while attending university, which allowed us to significantly save on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a group often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, offering a plethora of neighborhoods. Many international students wish to find a semblance of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a colorful district filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London will vary depending on individual interests and requirements. To locate your new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.