**Securing Accommodation in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months since relocating to London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have gained significant insights about residing in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts not only a rich tapestry of communities but also an extensive array of housing options. Students have myriad choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared baths, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can investigate options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites supply information on amenities and proximity to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. Yet, fares for inter-zonal travel can be steep, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To mitigate costs, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transit. Luckily, Oyster card options help lower commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fare prices on these services differ based on distance and the specific pricing structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London entails high living costs; however, I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, offering a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that would have been harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Vital Stores
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide economical choices. Proximity to supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods, as it saves time on errands.
### Building a Community
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities enrich the city’s cultural landscape, and numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, teeming with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a fraction of the diverse neighbourhoods found in London.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal living space in London is contingent on your personal tastes and requirements. While searching for accommodation, embrace the city’s richness, explore various cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the accessibility and thrill that London presents. Although finding the perfect home may require some time, the experience of living in such a dynamic city is undeniably fulfilling.