**Finding a Place in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months since my relocation to London. While this period may not seem lengthy, I have gained considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a variety of housing choices but also a multitude of communities that inhabit it. Students have access to numerous housing options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, whereas international students often check options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which detail amenities and transport connections.
### Selecting Your Living Space
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near the key attractions, lively spots, and importantly, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s excellent public transit network, encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates movement between these zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I preferred walking shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options have made commuting more budget-friendly for students.
Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network. The cost for inter-zone travel on these services differs based on distance and individual train operators’ pricing policies. Living in Central London can be costly due to its closeness to key attractions, but I managed to decrease my rent by sharing a room with a companion. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and age groups—an encounter that would have been tougher to experience in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of London’s most common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer more budget-friendly choices. Being near vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errand-running—especially during exams when every second is precious.
### Discovering a Community
Selecting the right neighborhood is a significant choice. London’s varied communities enrich its cultural fabric, and many international students search for areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Additionally, Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area full of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the many cultural enclaves within the city.
### Closing Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and requirements. When on the lookout for a home, take advantage of the city’s diverse accommodation offerings, explore its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London provides.
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*By Guest Blogger*
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s