**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may sound like a short duration, I’ve gained substantial knowledge about navigating life in this dynamic city. London provides an array of housing options, catering to both students and professionals. Whether you’re seeking student accommodations or private rentals, the options are plentiful, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For resident students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. For international students, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow for online exploration of available properties, checking of amenities, and evaluation of public transport accessibility before deciding.
### Identifying the Ideal Location
In my accommodation hunt, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making it easy to travel between various zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly. Cross-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 a day, prompting me to walk short distances instead of relying on the Tube or bus whenever feasible. Thankfully, Oyster card options assist in lowering transportation costs for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services span beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones with fare structures that vary based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London involves elevated living expenses, but I successfully lowered my rent by sharing a room with a fellow university friend. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more difficult in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. London is home to several common supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Having essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic exam times when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s wide array of ethnic groups that enrich its cultural fabric. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that foster a sense of comfort and community.
For instance, West London’s Southall is known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a fraction of the numerous diverse neighbourhoods across London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London is dependent on individual preferences, budget, and lifestyle choices. Whether your focus is on affordability, cultural vibrancy, or closeness to your university, London presents a multitude of accommodation alternatives to meet various needs. As you embark on the search for a new home, take the opportunity to explore different neighbourhoods, appreciate the city’s diversity, and savor everything London has to offer.
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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/)