**Exploring Housing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**

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

Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months of residency in London. While that may not sound extensive, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge during this timeframe. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive selection of housing options but also by its diverse communities. Students, especially, have an abundance of living arrangements to consider. From student dorms to private rentals, the choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, as well as studio flats and shared houses. For domestic students, arranging viewings for apartments is generally uncomplicated, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, evaluate available facilities, and consider access to public transport.

When I initiated my search for accommodation, my preference was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be in proximity to significant landmarks, lively social venues, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation system, comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates smooth movement and inter-zone travel. However, I was keen to minimize commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can accumulate costs of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transit. Nevertheless, the Oyster card provides fare reductions for students, thus making trips to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the central region. The price of inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and each train operator’s fare system.

Residing in Central London offers the advantage of being near key attractions, albeit at a higher cost of living. Fortunately, I was pursuing my studies alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. Personally, I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that might have been more challenging in private accommodation.

One of my essential considerations was being close to grocery stores. Some of the most frequented supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.

Determining the right neighbourhood in London can be a challenging task. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of neighbourhoods to explore. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, offering numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a thriving enclave brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples merely scratch the surface of the many culturally vibrant neighbourhoods in the city.

In the end, the ideal neighbourhood for residing in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you seek a new residence in this city, embrace the array of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.

*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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