**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months might not feel lengthy, this time has been filled with invaluable experiences. London is a lively and multifaceted city, evident not only in its variety of housing choices but also in the colorful communities that reside here. For students, there is an abundance of options available. Whether searching for student lodgings or private residences, choices are wide-ranging, including ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, along with shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover possible accommodations, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and especially Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. However, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or Tube. Thankfully, Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare schedules of different train operators.
Residing in Central London grants the advantage of proximity to prominent attractions, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was pursuing my studies alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly alleviating our rent burden. I also favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to achieve in private housing.
One of my key priorities was being close to grocery stores. Popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to live in poses a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities form an essential component of its cultural fabric, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of connection in this expansive city. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, presents a bustling enclave teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of the many community-rich neighborhoods London has to offer.
In the end, the best area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. As you embark on the journey of finding your new home in this vibrant city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing offerings, dive into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city provides.
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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/)*