**Exploring London: My Journey with Student Housing and Urban Life**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

A few days back, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not sound like a lengthy period, it has given me ample opportunity to acquire some essential insights into life within this dynamic city. London showcases an array of cultural and community diversity alongside varied accommodation options, catering to multiple tastes and financial plans. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, the city presents numerous living situations, ranging from student housing to private residences, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared spaces, studio flats, and shared houses.

For students, securing a living space is generally uncomplicated. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students might depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential living arrangements online. These sites offer extensive details regarding facilities and the distance to public transport, making it easier to make educated choices remotely.

### My Accommodation Hunt

When I commenced my search, I was eager to find a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s key attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s public transit network, which includes the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates travel across these zones. However, the cost of traveling between them can escalate quickly, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on transportation costs, I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card options have considerably lowered my commuting expenditures to the university.

Besides the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the central zones, reaching a broader area. The fares for these services vary based on the distance traveled and the specific pricing structure of the train operator. Residing in Central London offers the advantage of being near major attractions, but it also results in higher living expenses. Luckily, I was in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent.

I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar ages. This opportunity would have been challenging to replicate in private housing, which tends to have a more diverse demographic.

### Closeness to Essentials

For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Proximity to critical stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exam time.

### Selecting the Perfect Neighborhood

Choosing a neighborhood in London is a challenging task, considering the city’s immense size and variety. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural environment, providing a rich array of neighbourhoods that reflect the city’s multicultural nature. Many international students pursue areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population, complete with countless Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.

These are merely a few illustrations of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods that make London an exceptional place to reside.

### Concluding Thoughts

The prime area to live in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural diversity of specific neighborhoods or the practicality of being near your university, London provides an extensive spectrum of choices. As you embark on your hunt for a new home, embrace the diversity and energy inherent in the city’s accommodation options, explore its cultural precincts, and relish the exhilaration that comes with living in one of the globe’s most lively cities.

*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/)

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