**Searching for a Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while this might not appear to be an extended period, I have gained significant insights about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a multitude of housing options but also a variety of communities that make it their home. Students can choose from different accommodation types, including student halls and private rentals, offering options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings, evaluate amenities, and review transport links before making a choice.
### Selecting Your Living Area
In my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport system, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates convenient travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily fares climbing up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transit whenever feasible. Thankfully, discounts through the Oyster card make commuting more economical for students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, accommodating outer zones with varying fare structures based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a university friend. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
### Importance of Local Essentials
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Some popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more affordable choices. Having essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies in the vicinity is incredibly helpful, especially during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
### Discovering London’s Neighbourhoods
Determining the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s cultural diversity is beautifully showcased through its various ethnic communities, each contributing a distinct vibe. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas reminiscent of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples highlight just a few of the richly diverse cultural hubs that make London such an inclusive city.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal location to live in London varies according to personal tastes and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural similarities, or closeness to your university, London presents a broad array of housing choices. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring different neighbourhoods, and capitalizing on its excellent transport connections can aid students in discovering the ideal place to call home.
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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/)