**Finding a Housing Solution in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve gathered substantial insights regarding the city and its accommodation choices. London is a vibrant and multifaceted metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options for students. Whether you’re in the market for student residences or private rentals, you’ll find a variety of offerings, encompassing ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared housing.
For home-based students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore properties online, verify available facilities, and evaluate the closeness to public transportation.
### Selecting the Right Area
In my accommodation search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s comprehensive transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates effortless travel between zones.
To reduce travel expenses (which can escalate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys), I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, discounted Oyster card fares provide more economical commuting options for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices on these services fluctuate based on travel distance and the railway company.
Living in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to major landmarks. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly decreasing our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate housing, as it offered a chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s often less available in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Key Stores
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the widely used supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies in proximity is exceptionally convenient, especially during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
### Finding the Ideal Neighbourhood
Determining the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in shaping the city’s cultural fabric, providing diverse and lively areas to discover. Numerous international students seek neighbourhoods that resonate with the culture of their homelands.
For instance, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents an extensive array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the many culturally abundant neighbourhoods in London.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize budget-friendliness, closeness to campus, or cultural resonance, the city boasts a spectrum of choices. As you search for a residence, embrace the diversity of London, discover various neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement that this remarkable city has to offer.