**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 milestone of nine months residing in London. While it might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge during this time. London is a remarkably dynamic city, not only because of its varied accommodation opportunities but also due to the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, housing options abound just a stone’s throw away. From student residences to private lodging, there’s an array of choices available, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport links.
When I was on the hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, social settings, and, naturally, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. The city boasts an outstanding transport network, with the underground (tube), buses, and trains facilitating easy movement. However, I was eager to cut down on my travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university much more budget-friendly. Besides the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with prices varying based on distance and the particular train service.
Residing in Central London has the advantage of being near key attractions, but it also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—a feat that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was a crucial aspect for me when selecting my living arrangements. Some of the leading supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Being close to essential shopping venues, especially during hectic times such as exam periods, is immensely convenient and saves valuable time when managing errands.
Deciding on the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few illustrations of the diverse neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s unique character.
In the end, the perfect place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on the quest for a new home in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy 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/)*