**Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights regarding the city and its accommodation. London is an ever-evolving and vibrant place, presenting a plethora of housing options for students. Whether you choose student housing or private rentals, there is a variety of choices available, including ensuite and shared baths, private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore properties online, review available amenities, and evaluate transport links.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
In my accommodation search, my goal was to reside in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy travel across different zones. However, commuting between zones can be pricey, with fares potentially reaching £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options considerably lessen travel expenses for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching areas outside central London, with fare variations based on distance and train operators.
Dwelling in Central London entails substantial living expenses, but I managed to lower my costs by sharing a room with a friend. This arrangement not only made rent more manageable but also created a sense of camaraderie. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that would have been more difficult to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essential Stores
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide accessible alternatives. Proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proves extremely advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exam seasons.
### Building a Community
Selecting the right neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic communities, each contributing a distinctive experience. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant musical atmosphere. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These instances represent just a fraction of the cultural enclaves that enrich London’s diversity and hospitality.
### Concluding Thoughts
Determining the best place to live in London hinges on individual tastes and priorities. Whether your focus is on cost-effectiveness, cultural affinity, or closeness to the university, London presents an extensive array of options. Embracing the city’s diversity, delving into different neighborhoods, and maximizing its excellent transport infrastructure can assist students in discovering the ideal place to call home.
London is a thrilling and lively city—finding suitable accommodation marks just the beginning of fully enjoying all that it has to offer.