**Exploring Housing and Life in London: A Personal Narrative**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not appear to be an extensive duration, I have gained substantial insights throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not only in terms of its wide-ranging housing options but also in the diversity of the communities that inhabit it. Students can find an abundance of housing solutions right at their disposal. Whether you seek student lodgings or private rentals, there is something that caters to all preferences—ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule in-person apartment viewings, whereas international students can peruse their prospective homes online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which also supply details about amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My intent was to remain close to significant landmarks, social hubs, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s remarkable transportation system—comprised of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones. However, I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as traversing between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To reduce costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or Tube. Fortunately, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university considerably more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was enrolled at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent costs. I personally preferred the intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
One of my primary considerations was the proximity to grocery stores. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, known for its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the myriad diverse neighbourhoods London has to present.
In the end, the most suitable area for living in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. While you embark on your quest for a new residence in this city, take in the diversity and depth of its accommodation offerings, discover its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London 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/)