**Searching for Accommodation in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago marked the nine-month anniversary of my relocation to London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained invaluable insights into life in this vibrant city. London stands out not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives for accommodation, which includes everything from student housing to private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and communal bathrooms to private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can check out websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore properties online, assess amenities, and examine the distance to public transport.
When I was looking for a place to stay, my aim was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social venues, and above all, Imperial’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features a highly efficient public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel between different zones. Nonetheless, commuting between zones can be expensive, costing up to £5.25 per day, which led me to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Luckily, using an Oyster card helps to reduce commuting costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube network, servicing outer zones with variable fares based on distance and train company.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses, yet I managed to save on rent by sharing accommodation with a fellow university student. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that would be more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, easy access to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having key facilities like grocery stores and pharmacies close by proves convenient, particularly during hectic exam times.
Determining the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s varied ethnic communities enhance its cultural diversity, offering students a sense of belonging. Many international students gravitate toward areas that resonate with their home culture. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the centre of the West End, is a bustling locale packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few examples of London’s multicultural communities.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are prioritizing affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, London provides a multitude of accommodation opportunities. Embrace the richness of the city, discover its distinctive neighbourhoods, and fully take advantage of the thrilling experiences that London holds.