Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not just for its varied housing choices but for its diverse communities. Students have numerous options readily available. Both student residences and private accommodations provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective housing online, assess the amenities, and observe the closest public transport options.
During my hunt for a living space, I desired a room in Central London to be near major attractions, social locations, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have decreased university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the particular fare structure of each train operating company. Central London attracts significant foot traffic, causing elevated living costs. Luckily, I was studying alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and substantially cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a rare mix in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of belonging to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When embarking on your house hunt in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this incredible city has to offer.