**Experiencing Accommodation in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although that might not appear extensive, I’ve gleaned several important lessons throughout my time here. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not just for its extensive range of accommodation opportunities but also for the varied communities that inhabit it. Students are notably presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Be it student housing or private rentals, the choices span from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is generally simple, while international students often rely on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse possible accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transit.
As I commenced my hunt for a residence, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I desired proximity to the city’s key attractions, social venues, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a fantastic public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, allowing seamless travel between these zones. However, I aimed to decrease my commuting expenses, as moving between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter lengths rather than using public transport. Nonetheless, the use of an Oyster card has considerably lowered my commuting expenses to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside central London. The inter-zone travel expenses on these services vary based on the travel distance and the fare system of each rail operator.
Residing in Central London certainly has its advantages, but it also corresponds with increased living expenses. Luckily, I was pursuing my studies alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages—an experience that would have been more challenging in private housing.
Another crucial aspect for me was the closeness to grocery stores. Among the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more cost-effective choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies can save considerable time, particularly during hectic times like exam sessions.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be quite a challenging choice. The ethnic communities in London play an essential role in its cultural tapestry, presenting an array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for locations that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian cuisine establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, pulsating at the heart of London’s West End, is a thriving locale brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a fraction of the diverse neighbourhoods available for exploration in London.
In conclusion, the most suitable area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on the quest for your new abode in this bustling city, relish the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover its cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorised 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/)