**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Experiences**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days back, I reached the nine-month milestone of living in London. Although it may not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights about this city during this time. London is a dynamic urban center, not only due to its extensive range of housing options but also because of the various communities that reside here. For students, there’s an abundance of housing alternatives readily available. Whether you choose student accommodation or privately rented spaces, you’re sure to find diverse options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential livings online, evaluate amenities, and determine accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to the city’s key attractions, social spots, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and transit between zones. However, I was keen on minimizing my commuting expenses, as travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, an Oyster card can significantly reduce commuting costs to university. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fare prices on these services depend on travel distance and the specific pricing policies of each train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which appreciably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations so that I could interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that might have been more challenging with private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. The most widely available supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shopping locales like supermarkets and pharmacies saves substantial time, particularly during hectic times such as exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic groups contribute richly to its cultural texture, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students tend to flock to areas reminiscent of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian populace, boasting numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and ethnic clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Concurrently, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively district brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the many community-oriented neighborhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the search for a new abode in this vibrant city, take in the diversity and abundance of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill that London has in store.
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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/)