**Finding a Home in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Although that might not seem long, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge about life in this vibrant city. London is rich in diversity, not just among its inhabitants and communities but also in its living arrangements. Students have an abundance of options available, ranging from university-managed residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is quite simple. In contrast, international students can explore various options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer virtual tours, details on amenities, and information about transportation links, simplifying the process of finding appropriate housing prior to arrival in London.
### Selecting Your Residence
As I searched for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social areas, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transportation network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across various regions.
Nonetheless, transport expenses can accumulate swiftly. Inter-zonal trips may run up to £5.25 a day, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or Tube whenever feasible. Luckily, Oyster card options help minimize commuting costs for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London is expensive, but I managed to save on rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also at university. I favored intercollegiate student housing, as it opened opportunities to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more difficult in private accommodations.
### Importance of Being Close to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more economical choices. The convenience of having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is invaluable, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Discovering London’s Cultures
Finding the right neighbourhood can be daunting, given that London boasts a broad array of cultural communities. Many international students gravitate toward areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few illustrations of the many diverse neighbourhoods that contribute to making London a distinctive and inviting place to call home.
### Concluding Reflections
The ideal location to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal choices and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, the city presents a myriad of options. Embracing London’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and taking full advantage of its excellent transportation system can help you discover the perfect home in this remarkable city.