**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and although it may not seem like an extensive period, I’ve gained significant insights into living in this vibrant city. London boasts a wide array of housing options and diverse communities that inhabit it. Students benefit from numerous accommodation selections, ranging from student halls to private rentals, offering ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students can utilize online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties, review amenities, and examine the closeness to public transport.
### Selecting a Location
In my hunt for accommodation, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, bustling social spots, and notably, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s comprehensive public transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. Still, travelling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares hitting up to £5.25. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. Thankfully, options like the Oyster card help lessen commuting expenses for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching outer zones with different fare systems.
Living in Central London does come with steep living expenses, but I managed to reduce costs by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student housing, which enabled us to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that would have been tougher to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more affordable choices. Having essential shops in close proximity is time-saving, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
### Identifying the Ideal Neighborhood
Finding the perfect neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse communities enrich its cultural landscape, and many international students look for areas that resonate with their home cultures. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian population, this locality features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These represent just a few of London’s numerous cultural neighborhoods, each providing a distinctive living experience.
### Final Remarks
The ideal place to reside in London is contingent on personal requirements and preferences. Whether you value affordability, closeness to the university, or cultural connection, London presents a diverse array of housing options. Exploring various neighborhoods and engaging with the city’s vibrant ambiance can transform the experience of living here into one that is deeply fulfilling.
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*Guest Blogger*
**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/)