**Discovering Accommodation in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not seem extensive, I’ve gained significant insights about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only rich in its diversity of people but also offers a plethora of housing choices. Students can select from various accommodations, which include student housing as well as private rentals. The options available range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to both private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up in-person viewings, while international students might utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and evaluate transport links.
### Selecting a Location
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, lively social areas, and the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s broad transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies commuting. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can become pricey, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To conserve funds, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options are available to help cut commuting costs for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing further connectivity.
Living in Central London can be costly, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend, so we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation because it gave us the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical options. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time when running errands—especially during exam periods when every moment is crucial.
### Building a Community
Selecting the right neighbourhood is a significant choice. London’s rich cultural diversity is evident in its numerous ethnic communities, which create a familiar environment for international students. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are but a few examples of the many cultural enclaves within London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London greatly depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are in search of affordability, closeness to your university, or a strong sense of community, London provides a multitude of options to meet diverse needs. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its distinctive neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the thrilling opportunities that life in this extraordinary city offers.