**My Journey in Securing Housing in London**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although it may not appear as an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some significant understandings throughout this time. London is an ever-changing and lively city, not only due to its vast array of accommodation choices but also because of the mixed communities that inhabit it. Students have ample housing alternatives available right in their vicinity. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a variety of selections, such as ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can rely on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate the accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My goal was proximity to major attractions, social gathering spots, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. The city features an exceptional public transportation network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, making it relatively straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. Nevertheless, I sought to minimize my commuting costs, as inter-zonal travel could reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. That being said, carrying an Oyster card has rendered commuting to school much more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. The charges for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on the distance and the fare structure of the specific operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also necessitates dealing with increased living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored living in intercollegiate student accommodations because it provided an opportunity to connect with students from various backgrounds and of a similar age group—something more challenging with private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich diversity of neighborhoods to investigate. Numerous international students seek areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, featuring a variety of Indian diners, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few of the many community-oriented neighborhoods in London.
In conclusion, the ideal area to reside in London relies on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in this remarkable city, embrace the multitude of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement that London provides.
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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/)