**Exploring London: A Student’s Insight on Housing and Daily Life**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not sound extensive, it has been sufficient for me to collect some beneficial observations about living in this vibrant city. London is a lively metropolis, not only in terms of its wide range of housing options but also in the richness of its communities. For students, the variety of housing alternatives is extensive, including student accommodations and private rentals. Choices span from ensuite and shared facilities to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily organize on-site viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse possible residences online, investigate amenities, and evaluate access to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to find a room in Central London. My goal was to be near major attractions, social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive transport system—including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates movement and travel between zones. Nevertheless, I was determined to reduce my commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or Tube. That being said, the Oyster card system has made commuting to school more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, encompassing areas outside Central London. The fees for inter-zone travel on these transport options vary according to distance and the pricing structure set by the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers several benefits, but it also comes with elevated living costs because of its closeness to major sights. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I opted for college-affiliated student housing, as I aimed to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies is a remarkable time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to the city’s cultural fabric, showcasing a wealth of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students search for areas that give them a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a considerable South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of the diverse neighborhoods that lend London its character.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re looking for a new abode or simply exploring the city, relish the variety and richness of London’s housing selections, uncover its cultural enclaves, and savor the thrill and convenience of this extraordinary city.
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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/)