**Exploring Student Living and Housing Options in London: My Journey**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although that might not sound like a lengthy period, I’ve garnered a wealth of insights throughout my time here. London is an ever-evolving and multicultural metropolis, showcasing not only its myriad of accommodation choices but also the diverse communities that reside within it. For students, there is no shortage of options. Whether you seek student residences or private lodgings, a variety of choices await you, including ensuite bathrooms and shared amenities, private rooms and shared spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up in-person tours, whereas international students can explore platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view properties online, evaluate features, and consider access to public transport.
When I initiated my quest for a residence, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s main attractions, social venues, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the core areas. The city’s extensive public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as commuting between zones could run as high as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to traverse short distances on foot instead of depending solely on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system has made it more economical to travel to university. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and each train operator’s fare policy.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but can also be costly. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I was particularly drawn to intercollegiate student accommodations since I aimed to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and age groups—something that would be more challenging to achieve in private housing.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. London’s most prevalent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s vibrant cultural diversity is evident in its multitude of ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. Many international students are drawn to neighborhoods that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian populace, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End thrives with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a handful of the many community-centric neighborhoods in London.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the journey of finding a new home in this city, seize the opportunity to appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure that London offers.
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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/)