### Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey
*Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, I have gained considerable insights about life in this vibrant city. London is rich in diversity, not just in its inhabitants and cultures but also in its housing alternatives. Students can choose from a range of accommodations, including student residences and private rentals, offering options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students have the ease of organizing in-person viewings for rentals, international students can explore different possibilities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites provide information regarding amenities, rent prices, and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I prioritized securing a rental in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two represent the most central areas. The extensive public transport system in London—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting across different zones. However, travelling between zones can be costly, with daily expenses reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Fortunately, options like the Oyster card have made commuting more wallet-friendly for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the scope of the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for these services differ based on the distance traveled and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I managed to lower these costs by sharing a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with students from varied backgrounds and of similar age—something that might be more challenging to achieve through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Some of the most popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more economical choices. Having vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies in close vicinity is incredibly convenient, especially during the hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood to reside in can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London enhance the city’s rich cultural tapestry, with numerous international students gravitating towards areas that feel familiar. Southall, in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian population and features a selection of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locale brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the myriad diverse neighbourhoods that London has to offer.
In the end, the most suitable place to reside in London is dictated by your individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a home in this vibrant city, embrace the diversity of housing options, explore the various cultural communities, and relish the convenience and excitement that London provides.