**Securing Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone since relocating to London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, I have gained extensive insights into residing in this lively city. London boasts a rich mix of cultures and people, along with a variety of housing options for students. Whether you lean towards student residences or private rentals, you’ll find an array of alternatives, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. On the other hand, international students might look into platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine available amenities, and evaluate transportation links before making any decisions.
### Selecting Your Living Space
In my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features an expansive public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel across zones.
To keep expenses down, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport, as traversing between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25. However, utilizing an Oyster card can markedly lower commuting expenses for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing outer zones with differing fare systems.
Residing in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to major sites. Luckily, since I was attending university with a friend, we resolved to share a room, which significantly eased our rental costs. I also found intercollegiate student accommodations appealing, as they offered opportunities to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that would have been more challenging in private housing.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is highly beneficial, particularly during exam periods when time is scarce.
### Building a Community
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in the city’s cultural fabric, providing a sense of familiarity for international students.
For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** boasts a sizable South Asian community, with an abundance of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End)** is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities.
These examples represent just a fraction of the diverse neighborhoods that London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London varies based on individual preferences and requirements. While seeking accommodation, embrace the city’s diversity, dive into its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of living in one of the globe’s most dynamic cities.