**Finding a Place to Call Home in London: My Journey and Learnings**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while that may not sound extensive, I have gained significant insights about residing in this dynamic city. London presents a wide array of housing options, appealing to both students and working professionals. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there’s an abundance of choices available, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can peruse options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive information about amenities, transportation links, and even virtual tours of possible residences.
### Selecting Your Living Space
In my search for a place to live, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is stratified into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s extensive public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Luckily, Oyster card options are available, which help lessen commuting costs for students.
London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. The ticket prices for these services depend on distance and the particular train operator. Although residing in Central London is convenient, it comes with elevated living costs. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I also favored intercollegiate student housing, as it provided a chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—an opportunity that would have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Importance of Essential Amenities
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the leading supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget-friendly options. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is extremely convenient, especially during exam times when every moment counts.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting, as London boasts a multitude of cultural communities. Many international students look for areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian population, Southall is filled with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community, Brixton features a vibrant music scene and a rich cultural history.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling district with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities, making it a focal point for the Chinese community.
These are just a few illustrations of London’s diverse neighborhoods, each presenting a distinct cultural experience.
### Concluding Remarks
The ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes, lifestyle, and financial considerations. Whether you’re after affordability, cultural familiarity, or closeness to your university, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, venture into various neighborhoods, and maximize your time in this exhilarating metropolis.
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*Guest Blogger*
Categorised under: **Uncategorized**
Tagged: **Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s**