**Finding a Home in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Though this timeframe might appear brief, I have gained significant insights into living in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts not only a wide variety of housing options but also a rich tapestry of communities that reside within it. Students have various living arrangements to choose from, ranging from student housing to private rentals, featuring options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can easily set up in-person visits, international students can browse listings online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer information on amenities and accessibility to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Selecting a Location
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most 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 transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between various zones. However, crossing zones can be expensive, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To cut costs, I opted for walking short distances rather than using public transport. Luckily, Oyster card options help minimize commuting expenses for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for these services depend on distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with a hefty price tag due to its closeness to significant attractions. To manage my budget, I chose to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also went for intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
### Importance of Accessibility
Having grocery stores in close proximity was essential for me. Some of the popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more budget-friendly choices. The convenience of having essential stores, like supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby is invaluable, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Diverse Neighborhoods
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting considering the city’s extensive diversity. The ethnic communities in London significantly influence its cultural landscape, providing a multitude of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that reflect their cultural background.
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, Southall showcases numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops specializing in traditional clothing.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community, Brixton features a dynamic music scene and a rich cultural history.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These instances are just a glimpse of the myriad cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London largely hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, London presents a plethora of options to cater to diverse needs. As you embark on your search for a new home, take time to appreciate the city’s diversity, explore various neighborhoods, and fully experience all that London has to offer.
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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/)