**Exploring London: My Nine-Month Experience of Securing Accommodation**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge in this time. London is an ever-evolving and varied city, not only showcasing diverse accommodation choices but also hosting vibrant communities. For students, numerous housing options are readily accessible. Whether it be student residences or private housing, the possibilities range from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for online accommodation searches, exploring amenities, and evaluating transport accessibility.
In my personal quest for housing, I concentrated on renting a room in Central London. My aim was to stay close to the city’s key attractions, social spots, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an excellent public transport system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones. Nevertheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking public transport. That being said, the Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground lines, encompassing areas outside the city center. The costs for these services vary based on distance and the specific fare regulations of each train operator.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to major landmarks, but it also entails higher living expenses. Thankfully, I could share a room with a friend, which greatly alleviated our rent burden. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been tougher in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious choices encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, particularly during exam times when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in is a challenging endeavor. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to the city’s cultural tapestry, offering a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London boasts a strong South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These serve as just a few illustrations of the myriad diverse neighborhoods London presents.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in this lively city, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement that London has in store.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorized under [Uncategorized](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/category/uncategorized/)
Tagged [accommodation](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/accommodation/), [Housing](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/housing/), [London Life](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/london-life/), [master’s](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/masters/)