**Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, it marked nine months since I relocated to London. Though this might not sound like a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insight into living in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of housing types and diverse communities. Students have various living arrangements available, including student residences and private rentals. Choices span from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily schedule in-person visits, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
### Selecting a Place to Live
In my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, bustling social spots, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s extensive transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, potentially reaching £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Luckily, Oyster card options provide a more economical means of commuting for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching outer zones with fluctuating fares based on distance and operator pricing.
Residing in Central London comes with steep expenses, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a fellow university student. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Some of London’s most popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to basic stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly convenient, especially during exam periods when time is scarce.
### Discovering London’s Communities
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be tough. The city’s various ethnic communities enhance its rich cultural tapestry, providing a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the numerous cultural enclaves that give London its character.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London varies based on individual preferences and requirements. Whether you seek affordability, closeness to your university, or cultural familiarity, London presents an array of housing options to accommodate different lifestyles. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring its neighbourhoods, and capitalizing on its conveniences can render your experience in London genuinely enriching.