**Experiencing Accommodation and Life in London: My Journey**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of living in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, I’ve gained valuable insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive accommodation choices but also by the varied communities that reside here. Students enjoy a wide array of housing options, from student residences to private rentals. Available choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For home students, scheduling viewings is generally uncomplicated, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover prospective housing online, evaluate available amenities, and check transport links.
When I started my quest for a place to stay, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near the city’s prime attractions, social venues, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation network, featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel across these zones. Nevertheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as moving between zones might cost up to £5.25 daily. To save on costs, I often opted to walk short distances rather than using public transport. Still, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, making commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance traveled and the fare policies of the train operator involved.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses due to its closeness to prominent sites. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to accomplish in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial outlets like grocery stores and pharmacies proves incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic groups are a crucial part of its cultural framework, creating a rich tapestry of diverse areas. Many international students prefer neighborhoods that remind them of home. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its sizable South Asian community, boasting numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the many community-centered neighborhoods in London.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your journey to find a new home in this city, embrace the rich diversity of housing options, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London 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/)