**Exploring London: My Journey with Student Housing**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not be an extensive period, it has provided me with valuable insights about this dynamic city. London stands out not only for its rich cultural tapestry and communities but also for its varied accommodation possibilities. Students here enjoy an array of options literally at their fingertips. From student residences to private lodgings, you can discover choices spanning ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students have the convenience of organizing in-person property viewings, while those from abroad can leverage online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transit.

When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and, notably, Imperial College’s campus was crucial for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transit system—comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement. However, I was determined to keep my travel expenses low, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card has made commuting to my university significantly more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London, though ticket prices differ based on distance and the specific train service.

Residing in Central London does come with a significant cost, given the closeness to popular attractions. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging to achieve with private rentals.

For me, living near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets across London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exam season.

Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in can be a complicated choice. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in shaping the city’s cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community, boasting a wealth of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located centrally in London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of the many community-oriented neighborhoods within the city.

Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are on the lookout for a new residence or merely exploring the city, embrace the variety of London’s accommodation offerings, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.

*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/)

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