**Exploring London: A Student’s Insight on Housing and Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear to be a significant duration, I’ve gained some important insights about life in this bustling metropolis. London showcases a rich variety of accommodation choices and is home to a plethora of vibrant communities. For students, the city presents countless housing options, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple, while international students can easily peruse their options online via sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms enable you to explore potential housing, review the amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport options.
In my own quest for suitable accommodation, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s prime attractions, social areas, and obviously, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city boasts an extensive public transport network, comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation. However, I was eager to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying heavily on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system provides students with discounted fares, making travel more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London indeed has its advantages, but it also entails a significant cost. Fortunately, I managed to economize by sharing a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the opportunity to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that can sometimes be elusive in private rentals.
One of my main concerns was the proximity to grocery stores. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in the city’s cultural tapestry, offering a broad spectrum of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant locale teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the numerous lively community neighborhoods present in London.
Ultimately, the optimal area for you to reside in hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to stay in London, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its rich cultural districts, and revel in the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.
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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/)