**Finding a Place to Live in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear extensive, I have gained considerable insights into life in this vibrant city. London is characterized by its diversity in both its inhabitants and the range of housing available. Students can choose from various options, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students from the UK, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly simple, while international students can browse options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer information on available properties, amenities, and their proximity to public transport, facilitating the search for a suitable living arrangement.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
In my accommodation search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and, most significantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s comprehensive public transit system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—makes traveling easy. Nevertheless, commuting between zones can become costly, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To minimize expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances when feasible instead of relying on public transportation. Thankfully, Oyster card options significantly reduce travel costs for students.
Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into outer London areas. The fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the individual train operator.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also attending university. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered opportunities to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that might have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essential Shops
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shopping outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies in proximity is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam season.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting a fitting neighbourhood in London can be challenging, given the city’s rich tapestry of ethnic communities that enhance its cultural diversity. Many international students seek areas that offer a sense of connection.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few of the diverse neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you focus on affordability, closeness to your university, or a sense of cultural familiarity, the city presents a wide array of housing choices. Embracing London’s diversity, exploring its various neighbourhoods, and making use of its exceptional transport links can guide you in discovering the perfect home in this thrilling city.