**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that might not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained substantial insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not just diverse in its communities but also presents a plethora of housing options for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there are options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares available.
For home students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate available amenities, and check the distance to public transport.
### Selecting Your Living Space
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, vibrant social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is sectioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement between various areas.
To save some money, I preferred to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport, as inter-zonal travel can accrue costs up to £5.25 per day. However, using an Oyster card can significantly lessen commuting expenses for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. Fares on these services differ based on the distance traveled and the operating company.
Living in Central London tends to be pricey owing to its nearness to major attractions. Thankfully, as I was in university alongside a friend, we opted to share a room, which allowed us to reduce our rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation with the hope of meeting peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more budget-friendly choices. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time when running errands, particularly during exam periods.
### Discovering a Community
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London hosts numerous ethnic communities, each adding to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Many international students look for neighborhoods that provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a lively locale filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few of London’s thriving communities.
### Concluding Thoughts
Your ideal living space in London will ultimately be based on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether your focus is on affordability, closeness to university, or cultural comfort, London presents a broad array of housing alternatives. Embrace the city’s diversity, venture into different neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement of living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.