**Securing a Residence in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may appear brief, I have gained extensive insights into residing in this bustling metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. Students can select from a plethora of housing options, ranging from university-sponsored student accommodations to private rentals, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore properties online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
In my quest for a residence, I concentrated on locating a rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, reaching prices of up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. Thankfully, the Oyster card options assist in lowering commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, serving outer zones with different fare systems.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I managed to save on rent by sharing a room with a friend. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility and Necessities
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide affordable grocery choices. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies proves immensely convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a vital choice, as the city’s cultural variety is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities. Many international students look for areas that evoke a sense of familiarity with their native countries. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Recognized for its significant South Asian population, Southall boasts Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – A vibrant locale with a robust Afro-Caribbean presence and a lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area abundant with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events.
These are merely a few examples of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Reflections
The best location to reside in London hinges on personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re searching for affordability, closeness to your university, or a culturally familiar setting, London presents an extensive array of accommodation choices. Embracing the city’s diversity, investigating different neighborhoods, and taking full advantage of its conveniences can transform living here into an exhilarating and rewarding experience.
—
**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/)