**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Around nine months back, I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be a lengthy duration, I have gained substantial knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a rich diversity not just in accommodation types but also in the various communities that inhabit it. Students are presented with a range of housing options, including university-maintained student accommodations and private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, as well as private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can effortlessly set up in-person viewings, international students can investigate choices via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer virtual tours, information about amenities, and accessibility to public transport.
### Deciding Where to Reside
In my search for housing, my objective was to secure a rental in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The expansive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly, with inter-zonal travel costing as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Luckily, Oyster cards provide discounted fares for students, making daily travel more cost-effective.
Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, giving access to outer regions. The price of inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and the fare structure of the train company. While residing in Central London ensures easy access to primary attractions, it also entails high living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also preferred communal student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds within similar age brackets—an opportunity that might be more difficult to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a crucial aspect of my housing decision. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies close by is exceptionally convenient, particularly during hectic exam periods when time is constrained.
### London’s Varied Communities
Choosing a neighborhood in London can prove challenging due to the city’s extensive and varied communities. Numerous international students look for areas that embody the culture and familiarity of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of the countless cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London is contingent upon personal preferences and priorities. Whether you emphasize affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university and transport links, London provides an extensive array of housing options. Embracing the city’s diversity, discovering its neighborhoods, and capitalizing on its lively lifestyle can transform living in London into an exhilarating and enriching adventure.
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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/)