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

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

Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I’ve gathered significant insights about life in this vibrant city. London is a metropolis that flourishes on its diversity—not only in its population but also in the myriad accommodation choices available. Whether you’re studying or working, you’ll discover numerous options, from student residences to private rentals. These choices comprise ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is relatively straightforward, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.

When I initiated my quest for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hubs, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features a comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (also referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—which simplifies getting around. Despite this, I was eager to minimize my travel expenses, as commuting across zones can accumulate to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently walked short distances instead of relying on public transport. That being said, the Oyster card system has made commuting more wallet-friendly for students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the core zones. The ticket prices for these services are contingent on distance and the particular train operator.

Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses due to its closeness to popular landmarks. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an aspect that tends to be more challenging in private rentals.

One of my key considerations was proximity to grocery stores. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.

Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich tapestry of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, offering a plethora of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of the many culturally vibrant neighbourhoods in the city.

Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home, take the opportunity to delve into the city’s varied accommodation offerings, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that London provides.

*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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