**Searching for a Home in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that might not sound like a lengthy period, I’ve gained significant insights into residing in this bustling city. London is not only rich in cultural diversity and communities but also offers a variety of housing options. Students can choose from multiple alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, with choices that include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio units, and house shares. While local students can schedule in-person viewings with ease, international students are able to browse options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information on amenities and transport connections.
### Deciding Where to Reside
As I looked for housing, my goal was to secure a rental in Central London to remain near major attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transportation network, comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, ensuring easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options can help lower travel expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground system, with ticket prices varying based on distance and the operator.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I was able to reduce my rent by sharing a room with a friend. I also favored intercollegiate student housing, as it provided opportunities to meet peers from diverse backgrounds in the same age bracket—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Access to Necessities
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer more wallet-friendly alternatives. Having essential shops in the vicinity saves time, particularly during hectic times such as exam seasons.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Finding the right neighborhood poses a challenge since London encompasses a range of ethnic communities, each adding to the city’s cultural richness. Numerous international students favor areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance:
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few illustrations of the many culturally rich neighborhoods present in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a home, embrace the city’s diverse housing options, explore its cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and excitement that London presents.
—
**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/)