**My Journey in Search of Accommodation in London**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not feel extensive, I’ve gained valuable insights about the city and its housing selections. London is an energetic and varied city, presenting a plethora of living arrangements for students. Whether you’re in need of student housing or private rentals, there’s an abundance of alternatives, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. Conversely, international students can utilize online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations, review available amenities, and evaluate the proximity to public transportation.
### Deciding Where to Reside
In my quest for accommodation, my preference was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social spots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The vast public transport network, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates effortless commuting between zones.
As travel between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily, I focused on reducing transportation expenses by opting to walk shorter distances rather than taking the Tube or buses. Nevertheless, student travel costs can be considerably decreased by using an Oyster card. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving outer zones with varied fare arrangements.
Residing in Central London entails steep living expenses, but I was lucky to have a friend attending the same university. We chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I also leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been more difficult in private rentals.
### Essential Needs and Convenience
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential services like grocery stores and pharmacies in the vicinity is particularly advantageous, especially during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the right area can be quite a challenge. London’s extensive cultural diversity is showcased in its various ethnic communities, each offering its distinct vibe. Numerous international students gravitate towards neighborhoods that evoke a sense of home.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring many Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, positioned in the West End, is bustling with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous cultural niches within London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately boils down to your personal tastes, lifestyle, and financial considerations. When on the hunt for accommodation, take the time to delve into the city’s varied housing opportunities, immerse yourself in distinct cultural neighborhoods, and cherish the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
London is brimming with possibilities, and finding the perfect place to live can enhance your experience immensely.