**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Almost nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and although that might not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is notably diverse, not just in its population and culture, but also in its housing options. Students have a wide array of choices, from student residences to private rentals, including options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom for online property searches, enabling them to examine amenities and evaluate transport links.
### Selecting the Ideal Location
While hunting for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making it easy to travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily fares climbing as high as £5.25. To conserve funds, I opted for short walks instead of using public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options are available to help lower commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, though fares depend on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London naturally leads to higher living expenses, but I was lucky to share my university experience with a friend. We opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rental costs. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodations, as they presented a chance to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essential Stores
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide alternatives. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, proves beneficial for running errands efficiently—especially during hectic exam phases.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can prove to be a daunting task. The city’s varied ethnic communities enhance its cultural richness, and numerous international students seek areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance:
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its significant South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few examples of London’s numerous cultural pockets, each providing a distinct experience.
### Concluding Thoughts
Determining the best place to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and requirements. Whether your focus is on affordability, closeness to university, or cultural connection, the city presents an extensive variety of accommodation choices. Embracing London’s diversity, delving into its neighbourhoods, and fully immersing yourself in its lively atmosphere can create a truly memorable experience.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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/)