**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While this might not appear to be an extended period, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not only for its various housing options but also for the lively communities that thrive within it. Particularly for students, there’s an abundance of accommodation choices available. Whether you seek student residences or private rentals, options abound—ranging from ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, to house shares. For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout potential homes online, examine amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
As I started my quest for a residence, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s primary attractions, vibrant social areas, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s efficient public transportation network, comprising the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement throughout. Nonetheless, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as crossing zones could rack up costs of up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than hopping on a bus or the Tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card can drastically cut down commute expenses for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to key attractions, yet it also comes with elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to share a room with a friend, which significantly alleviated our rent burden. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—this mix is often harder to find in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near essential retail outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves a great deal of time, particularly during hectic periods such as exam weeks.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic groups form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich tapestry of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population, offering numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the myriad of lively community neighborhoods within London.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home, dedicate some time to examine the city’s varied accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and savor the convenience and excitement 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/)