**Finding a Place to Call Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and though that might not appear to be a significant duration, I have gained considerable knowledge regarding life in this vibrant city. London exhibits great diversity not only in its housing options but also within the various communities that reside here. Students can choose from a multitude of housing alternatives, such as student residences and private rentals, which include configurations like ensuite bathrooms, shared bathrooms, private rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange in-person property viewings, while international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom for online property exploration, checking available amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transportation.
### Determining Your Residence
In seeking accommodation, I placed emphasis on securing a rental in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London boasts an extensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates relatively easy travel between zones. However, inter-zonal fares can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To cut expenses, I decided to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Luckily, Oyster card options have rendered trips to university more economical.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the train operator. Residing in Central London incurs high living costs, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a friend. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most familiar supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical options. Proximity to essential convenience stores, including pharmacies, saves valuable time during errand runs—particularly advantageous during exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can prove challenging, but London’s cultural richness offers something for everyone. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the core of the West End, Chinatown presents a bustling area filled with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural celebrations. These exemplify just a fraction of the many diverse communities found in London.
### Finding Your Perfect Match
The ideal residence in London will vary based on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize affordability, closeness to university, or cultural ties, London presents an array of housing options catering to various lifestyles. By embracing the city’s diversity, exploring its cultural centers, and capitalizing on its convenience and vibrancy, you can transform your experience into something truly fulfilling.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorized 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/)