**Finding a Home in London: My Journey and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months since relocating to London. While this duration may appear brief, I have gained valuable insights into residing in this lively city. London presents a varied selection of housing choices, suited to diverse tastes and financial plans. Students can choose from a multitude of options including student residences and private rentals, with facilities such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
### Selecting a Location
In my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commutes between zones. Nevertheless, travelling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To conserve funds, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transit. Luckily, Oyster card options provide discounts for student travel.
Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond central areas, covering outer zones. The price of inter-zone travel on these services depends on the distance and fare structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London involves high living expenses, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a friend. I preferred living in intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essential Shops
For me, being near grocery stores was a critical criterion when selecting accommodation. Some popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely useful, especially during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive diversity. The ethnic communities of London greatly enrich its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighbourhoods that mirror different heritages. Many international students look for areas that bring a sense of connection to their home country.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a thriving South Asian community, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal location to reside in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. Whether you focus on budget, closeness to university, or cultural resonance, London provides a broad array of accommodation options. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and taking full advantage of its superb transport system can greatly enhance your experience of living in this vibrant metropolis.