**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I settled in London, and while it may not seem like a lengthy duration, I have gained substantial insights into living in this vibrant city. London showcases a rich tapestry of cultures and communities, and it also offers a plethora of accommodation choices for students. Whether choosing student residences or private rentals, students can discover an array of living options, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is straightforward, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view properties virtually, check available amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transportation.
### Locating the Ideal Area
In my search for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s vast transport network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. However, transport costs can escalate quickly, with inter-zonal fares amounting to as much as £5.25 each day. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport whenever feasible. Luckily, discounts available through the Oyster card assist in lowering commuting costs for students.
In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend to regions beyond central London, with ticket prices fluctuating based on distance and the specific train company’s pricing model. While central areas in London allow easy access to major sights, the cost of living is considerably higher. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I also found intercollegiate student housing preferable, as it enabled me to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds—something that is often more challenging in the private rental market.
### Accessibility to Essential Shops
Another crucial aspect of my decision was living near grocery stores. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget-friendly choices. Having essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, within close proximity is invaluable, particularly during hectic exam times when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Community
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can prove to be a daunting task, as the city boasts a multitude of ethnic communities, each adding to its diverse cultural mosaic. Many international students gravitate toward areas that echo the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London is notable for its large South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music landscape. Meanwhile, Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, presents a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the diverse neighbourhoods in London, each offering a distinctive experience.
### Concluding Reflections
The optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon personal preferences and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, London provides a wide array of accommodation choices tailored to different requirements. Embracing the city’s diversity, delving into its cultural pockets, and fully engaging with its spirited environment can render the experience of living in London profoundly fulfilling.