**Discovering a Place to Call Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and although that duration may appear brief, I’ve gained significant insights into life in this dynamic city. London presents an extensive array of living arrangements, suitable for both students and professionals. Whether you seek student accommodation or private rentals, you’ll encounter myriad options, ranging from ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, to studio apartments and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite manageable, while international students can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate available amenities, and consider the convenience of public transport access.
### Determining Where to Reside
In my search for housing, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, bustling social venues, and my university, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional public transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates straightforward commuting between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I preferred walking shorter distances instead of using the Tube or buses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. However, Oyster card options significantly decrease commuting costs for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the central zones, with fares varying based on distance and train company regulations.
Residing in Central London can come with a hefty price tag, but I was fortunate to have a friend attending the same university. We made the decision to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds—an opportunity that would have been more challenging to come by in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, the convenience of living near grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical alternatives. The proximity of essential shops is a time-saver, particularly during exams when every second is invaluable.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting, as London is a tapestry of diverse ethnic communities, each contributing to the city’s cultural richness. A number of international students gravitate toward areas that resonate with the familiarity of their home countries.
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its substantial South Asian community, this area boasts Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling area featuring authentic Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These represent just a few instances of the culturally vibrant neighbourhoods found throughout London.
### Concluding Remarks
The most suitable place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal choices, lifestyle, and financial considerations. Whether you’re on the hunt for student housing or private rentals, the variety of accommodation options in London ensures there is something for everyone. Embracing the city’s cultural diversity and convenience renders the experience of living here genuinely thrilling.
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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/)