**Finding a Residence in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insights into life in this vibrant city. London is rich in diversity when it comes to its communities and also presents a variety of housing options for students. Whether you need student accommodations or private rentals, there are numerous possibilities, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, both private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can look into choices online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer information regarding amenities, transport connections, and other vital details.
### Deciding on a Place to Live
In my accommodation search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London so as to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb public transit system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, allowing easy travel between different locales. However, traveling between zones can become pricey, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To save on costs, I chose to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options assist in minimizing commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones with different fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails steep living expenses, but I managed to lower costs by sharing a room with a friend. This considerably decreased our overall rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more challenging in private housing.
### Accessibility and Necessities
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be challenging, as London hosts a multitude of cultural communities. Many international students look for areas that evoke a feeling of familiarity. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Known for its substantial South Asian population, this area features Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These examples represent just a fraction of London’s diverse neighbourhoods, each providing its own distinct cultural experience.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to call home in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re in search of affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, London caters to all tastes. Embrace the city’s rich diversity, explore various neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy your time in this exhilarating metropolis.
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*By Guest Blogger*
**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/)