**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may appear brief, I’ve acquired significant insights into living in this vibrant city. London is steeped in history and culture, and it also presents a multitude of accommodation options appealing to various communities. For students, particularly, there is an abundance of choices, ranging from student housing to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly easy, whereas international students may seek options online via sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer comprehensive details about available accommodations, including amenities and their distance from public transport.
### Selecting a Living Space
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain within reach of major attractions, social spots, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s vast transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares soaring to £5.25. To manage expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options substantially lower commuting costs for students.
Aside from the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into greater London, providing further travel alternatives. However, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing policies of different train operators.
Residing in Central London entails elevated living expenses, yet I managed to cut down on rent by sharing a room with a university friend. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as these settings offered a chance to engage with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more difficult in private housing.
### Importance of Location
Living close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Some popular supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget-friendly alternatives. Having essential retailers, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, in close proximity is extraordinarily convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam season.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Finding the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The various ethnic communities in London enrich its cultural tapestry, creating a sense of belonging for international students. Numerous students look for areas offering familiar foods, shops, and cultural experiences.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples represent just a fraction of the culturally rich neighbourhoods that London has to offer.
### Concluding Reflections
Determining the best place to reside in London ultimately hinges on individual tastes and priorities. Whether you prioritize affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, London has diverse options available. By embracing the city’s multiculturalism, exploring its various neighbourhoods, and utilizing its excellent transport network, you can discover the ideal home within this exhilarating metropolis.
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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/)