**Exploring Student Accommodation in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months since I relocated to London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, I have gathered significant experiences along the way. London is a dynamic and multicultural city, presenting a plethora of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students encounter numerous options at their fingertips, ranging from student accommodations to private leases, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite straightforward, while international students can investigate options via websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms enable prospective tenants to browse properties online, evaluate available features, and consider their distance from public transportation.
### Locating the Ideal Place to Reside
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London, allowing me to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city has a comprehensive public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across different regions.
Given that inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day, I attempted to cut down on commuting costs by opting to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made travelling more budget-friendly for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central city. Travel expenses on these services fluctuate according to the distance and fare policies of different train operators.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend. We chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience harder to find in private rentals.
### Important Amenities and Grocery Stores
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having necessary places like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is exceptionally handy, particularly during exam seasons when time is scarce.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s diverse ethnic communities add to its rich cultural tapestry, promoting a variety of unique areas. Many international students look for neighborhoods that remind them of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few samples of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Remarks
The optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. While searching for accommodation, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural enclaves, and make the most of the convenience and vibrancy that London presents. Discovering the perfect home might require patience, but with the right mindset, you can fully enjoy your student journey in this remarkable city.