**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Life in the City**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained several important perspectives throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, showcasing not only its varied housing selections but also the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, a plethora of residential options is readily available. From student accommodation to privately rented spaces, the choices span ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, whereas international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate prospective housing online, evaluate amenities, and consider accessibility to public transport.
While I was searching for accommodation, I was particularly interested in securing a room in Central London. I aimed to stay near the city’s prominent sights, social areas, and naturally, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s superb transportation network—comprising the Underground (Tube), bus services, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones. I tried to keep my travel expenses low since inter-zonal travel can reach as much as £5.25 per day. I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking public transport. However, having an Oyster card has made commuting to university considerably more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, including areas outside of central London. Fare prices for these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators.
Residing in Central London provides the advantage of being near key attractions, but it also comes with elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental burden. I favored living in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a mixture that is often elusive in private rentals.
For me, having grocery stores in close proximity was essential. Some of the well-known supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while wallet-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget options. Living near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be a tremendous time-saver, particularly during exam seasons when time is of the essence.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London play an integral role in its cultural diversity, contributing a vibrant mosaic of varied neighbourhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity within this sprawling city. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Conversely, Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the core of London’s West End, Chinatown presents a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous community-oriented neighbourhoods spread throughout the city.
In the end, the most suitable area to live in London greatly depends on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new residence in this vibrant metropolis, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing landscape, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy 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/)