**Finding Accommodation in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Though nine months might not appear extensive, I have accumulated some invaluable experiences throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its multitude of accommodation choices but also due to the eclectic communities that inhabit it. For students especially, there are numerous options available. Be it student housing or private rentals, offerings vary from ensuite bathrooms and suites to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, examine available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, lively areas, and, of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is split into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s transportation network is exceptional, encompassing the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across different zones. Personally, I targeted minimizing my travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. However, having an Oyster card has made commuting to my university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching areas outside of central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to major sights, but it also results in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly helped lower our rent. I favored staying in intercollegiate student lodgings, as I wanted to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that might have been harder to find in private housing.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, particularly during hectic times like examination periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in the city’s cultural landscape, showcasing a wide array of neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. In the bustling West End of London, Chinatown presents a vibrant milieu with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few of the varied community neighborhoods in London.
In conclusion, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on your search for a new home in this city, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore the cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and thrill that London presents.
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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/)