**Experiencing Life and Housing in London: My Journey**

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

Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be an extensive duration, I’ve gained valuable insights throughout this time. London is a bustling and lively metropolis, notable not only for its array of housing options but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students, especially, are privy to a plethora of housing choices. Whether seeking student accommodations or private rentals, possibilities abound from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is quite easy. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.

In my quest for a residence, I was particularly focused on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to the city’s prime attractions, social hotspots, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. The city boasts an excellent transportation network—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates movement between these zones. Nevertheless, I aimed to reduce my travel expenses, as crossing zones can set one back by up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transit. That said, the Oyster card has significantly lowered the cost of commuting to university. For those venturing beyond the reach of the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services stretch into the outer zones, though ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the chosen train operator.

Residing in Central London offers its advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses due to proximity to renowned attractions. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which substantially decreased our rental costs. Furthermore, I opted for intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging in private accommodation.

Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Some prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves a considerable amount of time, particularly during hectic times, such as exams.

Selecting the right neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its extensive South Asian community, featuring an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is known for its dynamic Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, the West End’s Chinatown is a vibrant bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the many lively communities found throughout London.

Ultimately, the ideal neighborhood in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. As you navigate the search for your home, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing options, explore its cultural havens, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city provides.

*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorized 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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