### Searching for Accommodation in London: My Journey
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be an extended period, I’ve gained significant insights about residing in this vibrant city. London showcases not just a diversity of its inhabitants and communities but also a wide array of housing choices available for students. Whether you are in search of student housing or private rentals, there is an abundance of options, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
### Selecting a Location
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a place in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commutes between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with fares climbing up to £5.25 daily. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport when feasible. Thankfully, Oyster card options assist in lowering commuting costs for students.
Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing schema of the train operators.
Residing in Central London incurs high expenses, yet I managed to economize on rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also a university student. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they facilitated interactions with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an experience that would have been more challenging to attain in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical alternatives. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly advantageous, especially during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
### Choosing the Right Neighbourhood
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood is a pivotal choice. London’s varied ethnic communities enhance its rich cultural tapestry, and numerous international students seek areas that provide a sense of belonging.
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its substantial South Asian community, Southall features numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores.
– **Brixton (South London):** Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a few instances of London’s numerous cultural enclaves, each showcasing a distinct ambiance and sense of community.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize cost-effectiveness, closeness to university, or cultural familiarity, London presents a broad spectrum of accommodation alternatives. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and fully experiencing its vibrant lifestyle can render your journey in London genuinely unforgettable.