**Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of living in London. Although this might seem short, I’ve gained considerable knowledge about the city during this time. London is a remarkably vibrant place, not only with its variety of housing options but also due to the lively communities that inhabit it. Students can choose from a broad array of housing, including student halls and private rentals, featuring choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to check listings, examine amenities, and evaluate transport links from a distance.
### Finding the Ideal Area
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to famous landmarks, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones smoothly. However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly, with inter-zonal fares going up to £5.25 per day. To minimize costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying solely on public transport. Nevertheless, Oyster card options considerably lessen commuting costs for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London, with fares varying by distance and train companies.
Residing in Central London comes with a steep cost of living, but I was fortunate to attend university with a friend. We agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar ages—something that might have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery shops was a crucial aspect of my accommodation decision. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Being near essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, simplifies daily tasks—especially during hectic exam periods when time is at a premium.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s varied ethnic communities enrich its cultural landscape, offering numerous distinctive residential areas. Many international students look for neighbourhoods that mirror the comforts of their home countries. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its large South Asian population, Southall boasts a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – A vibrant locale with a robust Afro-Caribbean community, Brixton is celebrated for its dynamic music scene and cultural diversity.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – Situated in central London, Chinatown is a lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few instances of the many culturally enriched neighbourhoods that London has in store.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual tastes, lifestyle, and budget. As you search for a place to call home, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural centers, and take full advantage of the convenience and liveliness that London presents. Whether you select student housing or private accommodation, living in London offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categorised under:** [Uncategorized](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/category/uncategorized/)
**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/)