**Finding a Place to Live in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days back, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although this may not seem like an extensive period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a variety of accommodation choices and a mix of communities that make it their home. Students have numerous options, from university housing to private rentals, with variations like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule property viewings, while international students can browse possibilities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer insights into amenities and distance to public transport, making the search process smoother.
### Locating the Ideal Area
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features a comprehensive public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, simplifying commuting. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, reaching as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the Tube or bus. Fortunately, Oyster card options provide students with more economical commuting choices.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services connect regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of the train operators. While Central London gives easy access to key attractions, the cost of living is notably higher. To lower expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save on rent. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they fostered opportunities to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, residing close to grocery stores was essential. Some prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer budget-friendly choices. Having essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies in proximity, saves time, especially during hectic exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can pose a challenge. The city’s varied ethnic communities enhance its rich cultural tapestry, and many international students look for areas that provide a familiar ambiance. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, which features Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These examples are just a glimpse of London’s multitude of cultural districts.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. While seeking a home, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its distinctive neighborhoods, and maximize your experience of the convenience and vibrancy London has to provide.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
**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/)