**Experiencing Life and Housing in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not sound extensive, I have gained a wealth of insights during this timeframe. London presents itself as a lively and energetic city, not only in its myriad of housing choices but also in the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. Students here benefit from a wide selection of housing options. There are numerous choices available, from student-designated accommodations to private options, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite straightforward, while international students can take advantage of resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to evaluate potential living spaces online, assess available features, and gauge distance to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I was particularly keen on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key attractions, social venues, and, naturally, Imperial College’s campus was essential to me. London is structured in six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s efficient transport system—including the underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across these zones. However, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, since crossing zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system has significantly lowered the commuting costs to university. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas outside the Underground system, reaching into zones beyond central London. The expenses for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare framework of the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, yet it also brings about elevated living expenses due to the closeness to prime attractions. Luckily, I was studying with a friend, and both of us chose to share a room, which substantially lessened our rental costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging in private rentals.
For me, being in proximity to grocery stores was critical. Common grocery chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam periods when every moment counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to the city’s cultural diversity, providing a rich array of neighbourhoods. Many international students arriving in London look for the comfort of their home cultures within these communities. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a considerable South Asian population, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of the community-centric neighbourhoods found in London.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new dwelling in this city, take the opportunity to appreciate the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city 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/)