**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although nine months might not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this time. London is a dynamic and multicultural city, offering not only a plethora of accommodation options but also a variety of communities that make it their home. Students are presented with numerous choices regarding housing, whether through student accommodations or private rentals. The selections range from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling viewings for apartments is a breeze, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore housing options online, review available amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. Proximity to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and, importantly, the Imperial College campus was essential. London is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across these zones. Nonetheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card has significantly reduced my commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube, reaching regions outside of Central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance traveled and the pricing structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London entails a steep cost of living, especially concerning rental fees. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend allowed us to significantly cut down our rent expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation to meet fellow students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging to achieve in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was another crucial factor for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available as well. Living in proximity to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is incredibly practical, especially during hectic times like exam weeks.
Selecting the right neighborhood can pose a significant challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape, presenting a rich tapestry of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students look for areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is notable for its sizable South Asian community and is lined with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. At the same time, Chinatown, residing in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of the many community-oriented neighborhoods that the city offers.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home, appreciate the diversity and abundance of London’s accommodation possibilities, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and exhilaration this extraordinary city provides.
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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/)