**Securing a Residence in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months since my arrival in London. While it may not appear to be a significant duration, I have gained extensive knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is varied not just in its housing choices but also in the communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of housing options available, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring possibilities such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple, while international students might explore websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review nearby amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
### Selecting a Living Space
In my housing search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the Imperial campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transport system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between various areas.
As inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I sought to minimize my commuting costs by walking short distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, Oyster card options assist in making university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Travel expenses on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London can be pricey due to elevated rental costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more difficult to achieve in private housing.
### Closeness to Necessary Stores
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities greatly enhance the city’s cultural landscape, presenting a variety of lively neighborhoods. Many international students look for areas that evoke a sense of home.
– **Southall (West London)** – Recognized for its substantial South Asian population, Southall hosts numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling locale filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a handful of the culturally diverse neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living arrangement in London is contingent upon your individual needs and preferences. Whether your focus is on affordability, closeness to your university, or cultural connection, London presents a wide array of housing options. Embracing the city’s diversity, delving into its distinct neighborhoods, and maximizing its exceptional transport links can assist you in discovering the perfect home in this thrilling metropolis.