**Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned significant insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant and multifaceted city, not just regarding its housing varieties but also in the range of communities that inhabit it. Students have a wealth of accommodation possibilities, spanning from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students can investigate options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information on amenities and transport connections.
### Selecting Where to Reside
In my accommodation hunt, I sought a rental in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commutes between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares soaring to £5.25. To cut costs, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transit. Luckily, Oyster card options assist in lowering travel expenses for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones with different fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails elevated living costs, but I managed to lower expenses by sharing a room with a friend. This substantially decreased our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed me to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Access to Essential Stores
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam season when time is scarce.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Choosing a community in London can be daunting due to the city’s rich cultural diversity. Many international students gravitate towards areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the centre of the West End, is a bustling district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of London’s numerous cultural enclaves.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London varies based on personal preferences and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, London presents an extensive array of accommodation options. Embracing the city’s diversity, delving into its unique neighbourhoods, and utilizing its transport system can enrich your experience of living in this extraordinary city.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s*