**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Although it may not seem like an extended period, I have gained immense knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is remarkably diverse in terms of its populace and culture, as well as its residential options. Students have an array of accommodation possibilities, from university halls to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For those studying at home, arranging an apartment viewing is generally simple. Meanwhile, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to view listings online, investigate available amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
### Deciding Where to Reside
In my accommodation search, my main focus was securing a location in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and, most crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To save on expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card discounts lower commuting costs for students substantially.
Besides the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond central London and serve outer zones. Ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the specific train company’s fare structure.
Living in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to key attractions. To mitigate costs, I made the decision to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more challenging to find in private housing.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proves especially useful during hectic times like exam periods, allowing for quicker errands.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s immense diversity. Numerous international students look for areas that mirror the culture and comfort of their home countries.
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its significant South Asian community, Southall boasts numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities.
These are just a few illustrations of London’s many culturally enriched neighbourhoods.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living situation in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. Whether your priorities are affordability, closeness to university, or cultural connections, London provides a multitude of accommodation choices. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and fully immersing yourself in its lively atmosphere can render your experience genuinely fulfilling.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
Categorized 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/)