**Finding a Dwelling in London: My Insights and Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have garnered a considerable amount of knowledge about residing in this vibrant metropolis. London showcases a rich array of housing options and boasts various communities that make it their home. Students can select from a broad spectrum of accommodation types, ranging from student halls to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students have the advantage of arranging personal viewings, international students can check options online through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer insights into amenities and transport connections.
### Deciding Where to Reside
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the Imperial campus. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s efficient transport network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. However, the cost of traveling between zones can add up, potentially reaching £5.25 daily. To save on expenses, I preferred walking short distances instead of relying on public transportation. Nonetheless, using an Oyster card offers substantial savings on commuting costs for students.
The London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. The charges for inter-zone travel on these services are contingent on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Given the high cost of living in Central London, I chose to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to reduce our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, providing a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Prominent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a real time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exam seasons.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, contributing a variety of vibrant areas. Many international students look for neighborhoods that evoke a sense of home. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Noted for its substantial South Asian demographic, Southall features numerous Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population, Brixton has a dynamic music scene and rich cultural diversity.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A lively district filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings.
These examples represent just a fraction of the cultural neighborhoods that contribute to London’s distinctiveness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual desires and requirements. While hunting for a home, celebrate the city’s diversity, explore its culturally rich neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill that London offers.
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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/)