**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I arrived in London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London presents a plethora of housing choices, catering to its varied population. Students especially have numerous options, from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can easily book in-person viewings, international students have the opportunity to search for properties online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which supply information about amenities and transport connections.
### Selecting a Place to Live
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones. However, inter-zonal travel can become expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Fortunately, student Oyster card discounts help make commuting more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering outer zones with various fare structures.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses, but I managed to minimize my costs by sharing a room with a friend. This greatly reduced our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that would have been harder to find in private housing.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Having essential stores and pharmacies in proximity is incredibly useful, especially during hectic exam periods when time is scarce.
### London’s Varied Communities
Choosing the right neighborhood can be difficult, as London hosts many lively ethnic communities. Numerous international students prefer areas that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, found in the West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of the many diverse neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London depends on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural comfort, or closeness to university, the city affords a vast array of choices. Embracing London’s diversity, exploring various neighborhoods, and leveraging its excellent transport system can guide you in discovering the perfect home in this exhilarating city.