### Discovering a Home in London: My Journey
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark since relocating to London. While this duration might not appear extensive, I have gained considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a variety of its inhabitants but also extensive accommodation alternatives. Students have multiple options at their disposal, ranging from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is fairly straightforward, whereas international students can investigate possibilities online through sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms supply information about available properties, their amenities, and their proximity to public transport, simplifying the search process.
### Selecting a Location
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to ensure closeness to prominent attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transport network, inclusive of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between various locations.
Since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, I sought ways to curtail my commuting costs by opting to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Nevertheless, Oyster card options considerably reduce travel expenses for students heading to university. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, serving outer zones. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance covered and the fare structure of each train operator.
Living in Central London entails considerable living expenses, but I was fortunate enough to be at university with a friend. We opted to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent burden. I also leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations since they provided a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Nearby Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies in close proximity is particularly advantageous during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Identifying the Ideal Neighborhood
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can prove to be a daunting task. The city’s multicultural neighborhoods enrich its vibrant cultural fabric, and many international students prefer areas that evoke a sense of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the numerous diverse neighborhoods that London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for accommodation, take the time to delve into the city’s rich housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural environments, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London provides.