**Experiencing London: My Journey through Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my ninth month of residing in London. Though nine months might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insights during my time here. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, characterized not only by its abundant accommodation choices but also by the vibrant communities that inhabit it. Students will find plenty of living arrangements available, ranging from student halls to private apartments, providing options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studios, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings in person, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I started looking for a residence, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features a robust public transportation system, comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless travel across various districts. However, I sought to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily. To economize, I often walked shorter distances rather than opting for public transport. That being said, the Oyster card options made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond the Underground network. The cost of traveling between zones on these services varies based on distance and the fare structure set by each train operator.
Residing in Central London can be pricey, due to its closeness to key attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I decided on intercollegiate student housing with the hope of interacting with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Among the well-known supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proves to be incredibly helpful, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting an ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students look for areas that offer a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, positioned in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Centrally located in London’s West End, Chinatown presents a lively assortment of Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of the many culturally vibrant neighbourhoods in this city.
Ultimately, the ideal area for living in London aligns with your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in this vibrant city, embrace the diversity and abundance of London’s accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and revel in the convenience and excitement that 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/)*