**Finding a Residence in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while that might not sound lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insight into life in this vibrant city. London showcases not only a mix of people and cultures but also a variety of housing choices. Students can select from numerous options, including student accommodations and private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily book in-person viewings, while international students might consider using platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings, examine amenities, and evaluate transport links before settling on a place.
### Deciding Where to Reside
During my accommodation search, I focused on living in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and, crucially, Imperial’s campus. London consists of six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an extensive transport system—encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25. To cut costs, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, Oyster card options make travel cheaper for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, covering outer zones with different fare structures.
Living in Central London entails higher expenses, but I was fortunate to share accommodation with a friend from university. We opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. Additionally, I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds, which would have been harder to accomplish in private rentals.
### Importance of Accessibility
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more budget-friendly choices. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, proves particularly beneficial during hectic times, like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Choosing the right neighbourhood can present challenges. London’s cultural richness manifests in its diverse ethnic communities, providing a sense of familiarity for international students. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End, buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous diverse neighbourhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university, the city provides a vast array of accommodation options. Embrace the diversity, explore various neighbourhoods, and make the most of all that London has in store.
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*Guest Blogger*
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s