**Exploring Life in London: My Journey with Housing and City Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my residence in London. Though nine months may seem brief, it has provided ample opportunity for me to discover various aspects of this dynamic city. London serves as a cultural amalgamation, and this variety is visible not only in its neighborhoods but also in the extensive housing choices accessible. Regardless of whether you are a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone. Options range from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, or home shares. For domestic students, setting up apartment viewings is uncomplicated, whereas international students can use platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, observe amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I started looking for accommodation, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. Being near the city’s prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is organized into six surrounding zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as crossing zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. To save on transportation, I frequently opted for walking shorter distances instead of taking the bus or Tube. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system has made commuting to classes much more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube, connecting various areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to share a room with a friend, which significantly cut down our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and age ranges—a blend that would have been more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Being near vital outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves a considerable amount of time, especially during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a plethora of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke familiarity with home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown, situated in London’s bustling West End, is a lively neighborhood brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of the varied neighborhoods available in London.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London depends on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or merely exploring the city, appreciate the variety and richness of London’s accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.
—
*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/)