**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. It might not appear to be a lengthy duration, yet I’ve gained some insightful experiences throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving city, characterized not only by its extensive selection of accommodation but also by the myriad communities that inhabit it. Specifically for students, there is an abundance of options available. Whether you opt for student residences or private rentals, you’ll find accommodations suited to various preferences—ranging from ensuite to shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, or shared houses. Domestic students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my housing hunt, I focused on renting a room in Central London. My goal was to stay near prominent landmarks, energetic social venues, and importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city has a robust transport network, featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates convenient travel across various zones. Nevertheless, I sought to keep my travel expenses low, as travelling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. The Oyster card, however, offers reduced travel fares, making commuting to school more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Costs for these services differ based on distance and the pricing systems of individual train operators.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, brings with it a hefty price due to its closeness to key attractions. Luckily, a friend from university and I decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age ranges, a social opportunity less likely in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Among the prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland readily available. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, which is particularly beneficial during exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play an integral role in its cultural tapestry, contributing to a vibrant mix of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian community, boasting a variety of Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Additionally, Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End, showcases a lively concentration of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of the numerous community-oriented neighbourhoods available in London.
Ultimately, the ideal neighbourhood for living in London is contingent on your individual tastes and requirements. As you embark on the quest for a new residence in this metropolis, embrace the diversity and abundance of London’s accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.
—
*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/)