**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, which may not appear to be a long duration, yet I have gained substantial insights about residing in this vibrant metropolis. London stands out not just for its rich diversity in people and culture but also for its varying housing choices. Students can select from numerous options, including student accommodations and private rentals. The choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studios, and house shares. While domestic students have the convenience of arranging physical viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse listings, review amenities, and evaluate transport connections prior to making their choice.
### Choosing Where to Live
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s extensive transit system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have made commuting more budget-friendly for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside the central zone, with fares differing based on distance and operator rates.
Residing in Central London entails higher living costs, but I was lucky to have a university friend join me. We agreed to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent expenses. I also preferred staying in intercollegiate student housing, as it provided opportunities to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that may be more challenging in private rentals.
### Proximity to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Prominent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer budget-friendly choices. Having easy access to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
### London’s Diverse Communities
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, as the city is rich with various cultural communities. Many international students look for areas that provide a semblance of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the countless diverse neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Final Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London is contingent on individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re seeking affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university, the city presents a multitude of accommodation choices. Embracing London’s diversity, investigating various neighbourhoods, and taking advantage of its superb transport connections can assist you in finding the ideal place to call home in this exhilarating city.