**Exploring London: My Journey with Student Housing**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not feel like a lengthy duration, I’ve gained considerable insights throughout this time. London is an energetic and multifaceted metropolis, showcasing not only a variety of housing alternatives but also an array of communities that make it their home. For students, there’s an abundance of housing options readily available. Whether you are considering student residencies or private lodgings, the choices encompass ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and determine proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room situated in Central London. I sought to be near the city’s key attractions, social spots, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being at the center. The city boasts a remarkable public transit system—comprised of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel between various zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs, as traversing between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to traverse short distances on foot rather than use public transit. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central hub. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific fare structure of each train provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails increased living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly alleviated our rent obligations. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations because I was eager to mingle with other students from varied backgrounds and my age group—something less achievable in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Among the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be a significant time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse areas. Numerous international students are drawn to neighbourhoods that evoke feelings of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new abode in this remarkable city, embrace the multitude and richness of its accommodation options, explore its cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and excitement that London presents.
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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/)