**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago marked the completion of my nine-month journey in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, I have gained a lot of insights about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a rich tapestry of communities but also a plethora of accommodation choices for students. Whether you seek student residences or private rentals, the options are abundant, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple, while international students can peruse options online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer virtual tours, information on amenities, and details about public transport links, streamlining the search experience significantly.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
In my quest for a living space, I made it a priority to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to major attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. The city boasts an impressive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy commuting between varying zones.
However, traveling between zones can turn out to be expensive, with daily fares soaring as high as £5.25. To cut down on costs, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options greatly minimize commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. The costs associated with inter-zone travel on these services can differ based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend. We opted to share a room, which significantly alleviated our rental burden. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodation, as it granted me the chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more difficult in private housing arrangements.
### Importance of Nearby Essential Stores
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Some of London’s most prevalent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more budget-friendly choices. Having essential stores in proximity saves time on errands, which proves especially beneficial during hectic exam seasons.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood within London can be daunting. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic communities, which can provide a sense of belonging for international students.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, with plenty of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the numerous cultural hubs that lend London its uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and needs. Whether you’re hunting for affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, the city showcases an array of accommodation choices. Embrace London’s diversity, delve into various neighbourhoods, and revel in the convenience and excitement that this remarkable city has to offer.