**Exploring London: Insights from a Student on Housing and Lifestyle**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its vast selection of housing options but also for its lively and diverse communities. Students can find numerous housing alternatives right at their fingertips. Whether you’re interested in student accommodations or private rentals, choices abound, ranging from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is straightforward, while international students can conveniently browse platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover accommodation options, amenities, and access to public transport.
When I initiated my search for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My objective was to remain close to the city’s main attractions, social hotspots, and of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. The city features an outstanding public transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. However, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. To conserve funds, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card provides discounted fares for students, making commuting more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance and specific train company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with diverse peers and those of a similar age—something that would have been challenging to achieve through private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Having essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves considerable time, especially during hectic periods like exams.
Finding the right neighborhood in London is no simple feat. The city’s ethnic communities are an essential part of its cultural composition, providing a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End, serves as a vibrant center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of London’s multifaceted neighborhoods.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new home or merely exploring the city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city presents.
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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/)