**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although it may not sound like a lengthy period, I have gained extensive knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only varied in its housing options but also in the communities that inhabit it. Students can choose from a broad spectrum of living arrangements, ranging from student halls to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, single and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While domestic students can easily book in-person viewings, international students can browse options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information about amenities and transportation connections.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
While looking for a place to stay, I aimed to settle in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. London is segregated into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s extensive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport whenever feasible. Thankfully, Oyster card options help lower travel expenses for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, with fares varying according to distance and train operator policies.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses, but I managed to cut down on costs by sharing a room with a friend. This significantly decreased our rent while enabling us to live in a desirable area. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near supermarkets was essential. Some of the most recognizable grocery chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Building a Community
Selecting the right neighborhood is a vital choice. London’s rich cultural mosaic is mirrored in its various ethnic communities, which provide a sense of belonging for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, set in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that enhance London’s charm.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and requirements. When seeking a home, embrace the city’s varied accommodation options, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and make the most of the convenience and excitement that London has to offer.