**Experiencing Life and Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights into residing in this dynamic city. London presents a wide array of accommodation choices and is home to numerous communities, making it a thrilling place to call home. Particularly for students, there are abundant housing options available, including student residences, private rentals, ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students can investigate options online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer information regarding amenities and access to public transportation.
### Securing the Ideal Accommodation
In my quest for a living space, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—which makes commuting between zones seamless. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with fares hitting as high as £5.25 per day. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Luckily, there are Oyster card options that make commuting less expensive for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, enhancing connectivity.
Residing in Central London entails high expenses, but I managed to reduce my rent by sharing a room with a friend. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—a connection often harder to establish in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, the proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Having vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies close by is particularly advantageous, especially during hectic times like exam season.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting, as London is home to a vast array of ethnic communities that enrich its cultural fabric. Many international students seek neighborhoods that resonate with the familiarity of their home countries. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling locale brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These represent just a glimpse of London’s multifaceted neighborhoods, each presenting a distinct cultural experience.
### Closing Thoughts
The optimal area to live in London is contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. Whether affordability, closeness to the university, or cultural resonance is your priority, London caters to everyone. Exploring various accommodation alternatives, embracing the city’s diversity, and maximizing its vibrant environment can turn living in London into an exhilarating and rewarding journey.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
Categorized 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/)