**Securing a Residence in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
About nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that might not sound like an extensive period, I’ve gained significant insights into living in this vibrant metropolis. London is rich in both its cultures and communities as well as its housing options. Students can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily organize in-person viewings, international students can explore their options via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer virtual tours and information about facilities and transportation links.
### Selecting a Location
In my quest for a place to reside, my focus was on securing a rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transportation network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 per day. To manage expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on public transport. Nevertheless, options available with Oyster cards greatly lessen commuting charges for students.
Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with ticket prices differing based on distance and train provider. While residing in Central London entails higher living expenses, I was lucky to have a friend studying alongside me, so we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds of similar ages—something more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near supermarkets was essential. Among the most prevalent grocery stores in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide lower-priced alternatives. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is remarkably advantageous, particularly during exam periods when time is at a premium.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult, given the city’s plethora of cultural communities. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that echo the comfort of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, presents a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a few highlights of the many diverse neighborhoods London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living environment in London ultimately hinges on personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize cost-effectiveness, closeness to your university, or cultural familiarity, London provides a broad spectrum of accommodation choices. Exploring various neighborhoods, embracing the city’s diversity, and taking advantage of its amenities can make your time in London exceptionally fulfilling.
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*Guest Blogger*
Tagged: [Accommodation](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/accommodation/), [Housing](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/housing/), [London Life](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/london-life/), [Master’s](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/masters/)