**Finding a Residence in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days back, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this may appear brief, I have gained considerable insights into the city and its accommodation choices. London is a vibrant and varied city, providing a multitude of living options catering to various needs. Students, in particular, have numerous alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally hassle-free. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
### Selecting a Location
In my hunt for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transportation system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across different zones.
To minimize transportation expenses, I preferred to walk short distances instead of using the Tube or buses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Nevertheless, discounted Oyster card options have made commuting more economical for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for such services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operators.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses; however, I was lucky to join university with a friend. We opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation with the hope of meeting peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more difficult in private housing.
### Closeness to Essential Shops
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide affordable choices. Proximity to vital shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is extremely useful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s rich cultural diversity is showcased in its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct atmosphere. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. On the other hand, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area bursting with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the city’s varied neighbourhoods.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university, the city presents a broad array of choices. Embracing London’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and taking advantage of the city’s conveniences can significantly enhance your experience.
London is an exhilarating place to call home, and identifying the right accommodation is vital to maximizing what the city has to provide.