**Searching for a Place to Live in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and although that might not sound like a long duration, I’ve gleaned a lot about residing in this vibrant city. London presents an array of housing choices, accommodating different tastes and price ranges. For students, there are numerous options available, from student accommodations to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students based in the city, arranging a viewing for an apartment is quite easy, while international students can browse options online via sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These resources offer virtual tours, information on amenities, and details about public transport connections, simplifying the search for an ideal living space.
### Deciding Where to Reside
While looking for a place, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the closest to the center. The city’s comprehensive public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, makes commuting easier. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Thankfully, various Oyster card options assist in minimizing travel expenses for students heading to the university.
Aside from the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the central areas, providing additional travel choices. Nevertheless, fares differ based on the distance traveled and the pricing system of the train operators.
Living in Central London comes with high expenses, but I managed to reduce rent by sharing a room with a friend. I also preferred intercollegiate student housing, as it enabled me to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
### Accessibility and Necessities
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget-friendly choices. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly convenient, especially during hectic exam times when every minute counts.
### London’s Varied Locales
Selecting the right neighborhood can prove difficult, as London hosts a multitude of ethnic communities that enrich its cultural diversity. Many international students gravitate towards areas that resonate with their homeland.
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian population, it boasts numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few instances of London’s culturally diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal place to live in London is contingent on your individual preferences, financial considerations, and lifestyle. Whether you seek budget-friendliness, cultural resonance, or closeness to the university, London accommodates everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore various neighborhoods, and optimize your time in this thrilling metropolis.
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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/)*