**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that might not seem significant, I have gained considerable insights into life in this vibrant city. London is not just varied in its inhabitants and culture but also in its housing alternatives. Students enjoy a broad spectrum of accommodation options, ranging from university residences and private student housing to shared flats and studio apartments. Domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while international students have the advantage of exploring properties online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer information on facilities, pricing, and distance to public transport, simplifying the searching process.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
In my hunt for a place to stay, I focused on securing a rental in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social spots, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across various regions. Nevertheless, moving between zones can become expensive, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To manage expenses, I decided to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Luckily, student discounts via Oyster cards help lower commuting costs. In addition, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, providing additional travel alternatives at diverse fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I managed to reduce rent by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which enabled us to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being close to grocery shops was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more affordable options. Having essential markets nearby conserves time, particularly during hectic exam seasons when convenience is paramount.
### Building a Community
Choosing the right neighbourhood is a vital choice. London hosts numerous ethnic communities, each enriching the city’s cultural landscape. Many international students seek neighbourhoods that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, rich with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, positioned in the heart of the West End, showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas foster a sense of community and familiarity for students from various backgrounds.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal location to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you value affordability, closeness to your university, or cultural likeness, London presents a myriad of accommodation choices. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and relishing its lively atmosphere can make your journey truly unforgettable.
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**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/)