**Discovering a Place to Call Home in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights into living in this vibrant city. London is rich not only in its housing variations but also in the communities that reside here. Students enjoy a broad range of accommodation options, including student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While home students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students have the advantage of exploring opportunities online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which detail amenities and transportation connections.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
During my search for accommodation, my main focus was on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, costing up to £5.25 per day. To minimize expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport whenever feasible. Luckily, Oyster card options are available to help students reduce travel costs.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of train companies. While the cost of living in Central London is high due to its closeness to major attractions, I managed to lower expenses by sharing accommodation with a friend, which substantially decreased our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student housing since it offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a benefit that’s often harder to find with private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, being near grocery stores was a significant consideration. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Being close to essential shops, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, is incredibly handy, particularly during exam periods when time is constrained.
### Picking the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can prove to be a tough task, as it boasts a rich blend of ethnic communities, each offering distinct cultural experiences. Many international students look for areas that mirror the comforts of their home countries. For example:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its large South Asian demographic, it hosts Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area brimming with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These represent just a handful of London’s diverse neighborhoods, each providing its own unique community atmosphere.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal needs and desires. Whether you value affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, London presents a vast array of housing options. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighborhoods, and taking advantage of its lively environment can enrich your overall experience.
—
**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/)