**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months since my arrival in London. Although this period may appear short, I have gained substantial insight into life in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts not only a variety of housing options but also a multitude of communities that enrich its landscape. Students encounter numerous choices for housing, including university-sponsored residences and private rentals, with alternatives such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule in-person viewings, whereas international students might turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review available facilities, and evaluate transportation links.
### Deciding on a Living Location
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The extensive transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between these zones. However, traveling between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk short distances rather than use public transport. Thankfully, options like the Oyster card help lower commuting expenses for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube network, covering outer zones with differing fare structures.
Living in Central London comes with a hefty price tag due to its closeness to major attractions. To reduce my expenses, I decided to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as they allowed me to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something a bit challenging to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Some of the most popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to essentials like supermarkets and pharmacies in proximity is incredibly helpful, particularly during stressful exam periods when time is at a premium.
### Discovering London’s Neighbourhoods
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task due to the city’s rich cultural diversity. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that remind them of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London features a vibrant South Asian community, presenting Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the diverse cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s distinctiveness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal location to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. While looking for accommodations, take advantage of the city’s varied living options, delve into its culturally rich neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
**Categorised 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/)