**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be a long duration, I’ve gained considerable insights about residing in this dynamic metropolis. The city provides an array of housing options to suit both students and working professionals. Whether in search of student accommodation or private leases, there is a myriad of selections available, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can explore choices online via websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information on amenities and transportation links.
### Selecting a Place to Reside
In my hunt for housing, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and my university, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the core areas. London’s comprehensive public transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—ensures smooth commuting. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, soaring to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options drastically lower commuting costs for students.
The London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside Central London. The expenses related to inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. Residing in Central London entails higher living expenses, so to alleviate rent costs, I decided to share a room with a friend. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessary Shops
For me, having grocery stores in close proximity was a vital aspect of selecting accommodation. Notable supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland that provide budget-friendly alternatives. The convenience of having essential shops nearby saves valuable time, particularly during hectic exam periods when quick access is essential.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s cultural richness. Many international students tend to prefer areas that echo the comforts of their home countries. For instance:
– **Southall (West London):** Recognized for its significant South Asian community, Southall is replete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean vibe and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling locale brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a handful of the many culturally vibrant neighbourhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London hinges upon your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether your priorities lie in affordability, closeness to university, or cultural affinity, the city presents an array of choices. Embrace the diversity, explore various neighbourhoods, and optimize your experience in this exhilarating city.
—
**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/)