**Finding a Place to Call Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, I have acquired considerable knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a range of housing options along with its varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives for accommodation, including student residences and private let properties. The choices encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily handle in-person property viewings, those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings online, review available facilities, and evaluate transportation options.
### Determining Where to Reside
In my search for housing, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social scenes, and, notably, the Imperial College campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an extensive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates travel among these zones. However, traveling between zones can incur high costs, reaching as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, there are Oyster card options that help lower commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, serving outer zones with diverse fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I managed to lower costs by sharing a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. I also leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a benefit that might be harder to achieve in private rentals.
### Importance of Location
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Among the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during exams.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Many international students look for areas that reflect the essence of their homelands. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire retailers. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of London’s numerous cultural hubs.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living situation in London is contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. While seeking accommodation, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its distinct neighbourhoods, and seize the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
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*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/)