**Finding a Place to Live in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy duration, I’ve gained considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not just a rich cultural and community diversity but also a plethora of housing options. Students can choose from various accommodations, including student housing and private rentals, which feature ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can efficiently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can investigate options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information on facilities and transport connections.
### Selecting a Location to Reside
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and, most critically, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s comprehensive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting across zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport whenever feasible. However, Oyster card options significantly lower travel costs for students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering outer zones with different fare structures.
Residing in Central London is costly due to its closeness to significant attractions. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been more challenging to achieve in private housing.
### Being Close to Necessities
For me, having grocery stores nearby was important. Some widely recognized supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Proximity to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is extremely handy, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting task. The multicultural communities of London enrich its cultural tapestry, with many international students opting for areas that evoke feelings of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, presents a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of London’s many diverse neighborhoods.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal living space in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize cost, proximity to school, or cultural familiarity, the city presents a broad spectrum of housing choices. Embracing London’s diversity, wandering through its neighborhoods, and fully engaging in its lively ambiance can render your journey truly fulfilling.
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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/)