**Finding a Residence in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be an extended period, I’ve gained a wealth of understanding about residing in this vibrant city. London showcases immense diversity not only in its populace and culture but also in its housing alternatives. Students are presented with numerous options, ranging from university accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, whereas international students might explore platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view listings, evaluate amenities, and consider transport options before reaching a conclusion.
### Finding the Ideal Area
In the quest for housing, my main focus was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and crucially, Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an extensive transport infrastructure—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commuting. However, traveling between zones can prove to be expensive, going up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Luckily, student Oyster cards provide reduced fare options, making everyday commutes less burdensome.
Beyond the Tube, services like London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the central zones, offering further transport alternatives. Nevertheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the train operator. Although residing in Central London is pricey due to its closeness to key attractions, I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds, which would have been more challenging in private accommodation.
### Importance of Accessibility
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more budget-friendly alternatives. Being near vital stores, including pharmacies, is extremely convenient, especially during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Community
Choosing a community in London can be daunting, as the city houses a multitude of ethnic groups that enrich its cultural tapestry. Numerous international students gravitate toward neighborhoods that mirror the essence of their home countries.
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian community, Southall features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These examples represent just a fraction of the many varied neighborhoods London presents.
### Concluding Remarks
The optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether your priorities include affordability, cultural connection, or closeness to the university, the city provides a broad spectrum of accommodation choices. Embrace the variety, explore different neighborhoods, and take full advantage of all that London has to offer.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
Categorized 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/)