**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**

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

Recently, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. While nine months might not seem extensive, it has been sufficient for me to acquire a few important insights about living in this energetic metropolis. London showcases not only a variety of housing alternatives but also a range of communities that make it their own. Particularly for students, there are numerous living arrangements available. Whether you’re in search of ensuite or shared bathrooms, private or communal rooms, studio flats, or shared houses, the options are plentiful. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students often utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find potential places to live online, examine available facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.

In my hunt for a rental, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Being in proximity to the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College’s campus was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive transport system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel across these zones. Nevertheless, I was determined to minimize my travel expenses since journeys between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. Nonetheless, the Oyster card has rendered commuting more budget-friendly for university trips. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside Central London. Ticket prices for these services differ, depending on the distance and the pricing structures set by each train company.

Residing in Central London has its benefits, yet it also entails higher living expenses. Thankfully, I was studying at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity less likely in private housing.

For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby vital outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time saver, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.

Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in the city’s cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that evoke familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the numerous community-centric neighbourhoods in London.

Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the search for your new home in this vibrant city, relish the variety of its housing options, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and appreciate the convenience and thrill that London has in store.

*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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