**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Advice**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not feel like a lengthy period, I’ve gained substantial insights into life in this dynamic city. London presents an array of housing choices, appealing to both students and professionals. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there are numerous options available, including rooms with ensuites, shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. International students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, review available amenities, and evaluate transport connections before making a choice.
### Selecting a Location
In my accommodation search, I aimed to reside in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social spots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s transportation network, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and rail services, facilitates convenient commuting. However, crossing between zones can be expensive, with daily fares sometimes reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Luckily, having an Oyster card makes trips to the university more budget-friendly.
Apart from the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach the outer zones, though ticket prices depend on the distance and the pricing strategy of the train operator. Living in Central London can be pricey, but I managed to lower costs by sharing a room with a friend, which substantially decreased my rent. I also leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been trickier in private housing.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Some popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical grocery choices. Having essential shops and pharmacies in close proximity is highly convenient, especially during hectic exam periods when time is scarce.
### Building a Community
Selecting the right neighbourhood is a vital choice. London boasts a wide array of ethnic communities, each contributing to the city’s rich cultural fabric. Many international students look for areas that provide a sense of familiarity.
– **Southall (West London)** – Noted for its significant South Asian community, Southall is home to many Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a few illustrations of the diverse neighbourhoods in London, each providing its own distinct experience.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, London presents a plethora of housing options. By embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and considering practical elements like transport and grocery accessibility, you can discover a home that fits your lifestyle while fully enjoying this remarkable city.