**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Living in the City**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gathered a substantial amount of knowledge about this lively metropolis. London is an exciting and varied city, not just regarding its housing choices but also in its culturally rich communities. Students, in particular, have a wealth of options when it comes to accommodation. From student residences to private housing, there’s an abundance of choices catering to diverse preferences—ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is seamless, while international students can browse websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential living spaces online, evaluate the amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transport.
In my own search for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social areas, and, of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation system—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy navigation. However, I sought to reduce my travel expenses, as cross-zone travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk modest distances instead of depending on public transport. Nonetheless, utilizing an Oyster card significantly lowers the cost of commuting to the university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing regions outside central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance and the particular fare structure of each train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I could share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save significantly on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that might have been more challenging in private housing.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is incredibly handy, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students aim for areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the many diverse communities that comprise London’s neighborhoods.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and necessities. As you embark on your quest for a new dwelling in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement London 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/)*