**Discovering a Home 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 seem particularly lengthy, I’ve gained a lot of insight into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a diverse population but also a range of accommodation choices. Students have a multitude of options, from university housing to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While home students can easily organize in-person viewings, international students can browse listings on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine accommodations, amenities, and transport links from afar.
### Deciding on a Location
In my quest for a place to live, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s vast public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across various areas. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To cut costs, I preferred walking shorter distances instead of taking the Tube or bus. Thankfully, student Oyster card discounts help ease the burden of commuting expenses. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, covering outer zones with different fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails significant costs, but I managed to save considerably by sharing a room with a friend. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation since I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something often more challenging in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Access to essential stores nearby is incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic exam periods when time is at a premium.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, as the city hosts a multitude of cultural communities. Many international students look for areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a prominent South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of the numerous diverse neighborhoods in London.
### Finding Your Ideal Place
The optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal likes and requirements. Whether you value affordability, proximity to your university, or cultural familiarity, there are a wealth of options to consider. Embracing the diversity of London’s housing market, exploring different neighborhoods, and reveling in the vibrancy of this remarkable city makes the journey truly rewarding.