**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this might not sound like an extended period, I have gained substantial knowledge about the city and its housing alternatives. London is a vibrant and diverse metropolis, providing a multitude of accommodation selections and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared living arrangements.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
### Selecting a Place to Reside
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city is served by a superb public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between various zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day—I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, Oyster card options drastically lower commuting costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones. Travel fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London comes with high expenses due to its closeness to major attractions. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar age—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essential Shops
For me, being located near grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas more economical options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having important shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly handy, particularly during exam times when time is at a premium.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city hosts a myriad of ethnic communities, each adding to its rich cultural tapestry. Many international students look for areas that resonate with the familiarity of their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of the diverse neighborhoods that London presents.
### Concluding Reflections
The ideal place to live in London is influenced by personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for accommodation, it’s crucial to embrace the city’s diversity, discover its cultural hotspots, and appreciate the convenience and excitement that London has to offer. Whether your focus is on affordability, closeness to the university, or access to cultural communities, London truly has something for everyone.