**Settling Down in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while that might not appear extensive, I have gained extensive insights into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a rich diversity within its communities and presents an array of accommodation alternatives for students. Whether one seeks student housing or private rentals, the options are plentiful, from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, organizing an apartment viewing is quite simple. In contrast, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations, review available features, and evaluate distance to public transport options.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
In my quest for a residence, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near main attractions, social centers, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. The city’s robust public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can become pricey, with costs reaching up to £5.25 each day. To minimize expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options help lower travel costs, particularly for university routes.
Aside from the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to outlying areas. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London can be expensive due to the demand and major attractions in the region. To alleviate rental costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lessened our living expenses. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that would have been tougher to achieve in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essential Shops
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide economical grocery options. Having essential retail outlets and pharmacies close by proves especially advantageous during hectic times, such as examination weeks.
### Building a Community in London
Selecting the perfect neighborhood can be daunting, yet London’s rich cultural tapestry offers something for everyone. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that echo their homeland. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian demographic, Southall features a host of Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling district teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a few representations of the various cultural enclaves that render London extraordinary.
### Conclusion
The most suitable place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you value affordability, closeness to your university, or cultural resonance, there are numerous options to consider. Embracing the diversity within London’s neighborhoods and housing selections can enhance your adventure in this remarkable city.
—
*Guest Blogger*
**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/)