**Exploring London as a Student: My Journey with Housing and Urban Life**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear to be a long duration, I’ve gained considerable insights about this dynamic city during that time. London boasts not only a variety of housing alternatives but also a rich tapestry of communities that make it their home. Here, students are presented with numerous options regarding accommodation—ranging from student housing to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple, while international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transportation.
When I initiated my search for a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I hoped to be near the city’s key attractions, vibrant social spots, and, of course, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s transport system—including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across these zones. Nevertheless, I was eager to keep my travel expenses low, since traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. That being said, the Oyster card system has improved the affordability of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground, reaching areas farther from central London. The fares for these services differ based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the respective train operators.
Residing in Central London offers both advantages and challenges—primarily, the high costs of living. Luckily, I was studying alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I preferred living in intercollegiate student accommodations because I wanted to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also accessible. Being near vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, significantly saves time, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in can be a challenging choice. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in the city’s cultural landscape, presenting a diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students tend to settle in areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian community, showcasing Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Concurrently, Chinatown, located within the bustling West End, is a lively area brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of the city’s vibrant community neighborhoods.
In the end, the optimal area for living in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the journey to find a place to call your own, embrace London’s diverse accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city 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/)