**Securing a Residence in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months prior, I relocated to London, and while that timeframe may not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only rich in diversity concerning its inhabitants but also presents an extensive array of housing alternatives for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there are countless options, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple, whereas international students might want to check out websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These platforms provide information about facilities, transport connections, and other important aspects to keep in mind when selecting your living arrangement.
### Deciding Where to Live
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a rental in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social spots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a fantastic public transportation system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making it easy to travel between various zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly. Inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the Tube or bus. Thankfully, Oyster card options help alleviate commuting costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London entails higher living expenses, but I managed to save on rent by sharing a room with a fellow university student. I favored intercollegiate student housing because it offered the chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a feature that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to 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 economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more budget-friendly choices. Being close to crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies is immensely convenient, especially during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
### Discovering a Community
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city teems with various cultural communities. Numerous international students look for areas that resonate with their home culture.
For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the center of the West End, showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of the many diverse neighborhoods London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether you prioritize affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university, London presents a range of accommodation choices. Embrace the city’s richness, explore various neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this thrilling metropolis.