**Discovering a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might appear to be a brief period, I have accumulated considerable knowledge regarding the city and its housing possibilities. London is a remarkably lively city, presenting a wide variety of living arrangements and bustling communities. Students have an abundance of options, ranging from student accommodations to private leases, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can effortlessly arrange for in-person visits, international students can investigate alternatives online utilizing platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer details on available facilities and closeness to public transport.
### Searching for a Place to Live
During my accommodation hunt, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near premier attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between zones. However, traveling across zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 each day. To save on costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options allow students to minimize commuting expenses.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into the outer zones, making them accessible from central London. Travel rates on these services depend on the distance and the fare structure implemented by each train operator. While Central London offers straightforward access to major sites, the expenses associated with living there are considerably higher. To lessen rent costs, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at university. This decision enabled us to save a significant amount of money.
I was inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds within a similar age bracket—something that might be more elusive in private rentals.
### Convenience and Necessities
For me, residing in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains found in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to budget-conscious shoppers. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies simplifies daily tasks—especially during hectic exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive diversity. The numerous ethnic communities contribute tremendously to its cultural fabric, leading to distinctive neighbourhoods that appeal to various backgrounds. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is known for its significant South Asian community, equipped with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, highlights Afro-Caribbean culture and a lively music scene. Chinatown, in the central West End of London, offers an extensive selection of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the countless cultural enclaves that render London such a diverse and inclusive city.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences, financial situation, and lifestyle. When seeking a home, embrace the city’s diversity, explore various neighbourhoods, and make the most of the multitude of accommodation options available. London is a thrilling and vibrant place to call home, providing something unique for everyone.
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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/)