**Living in London: Exploring Housing and Community**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. While this may appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to gather important perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a rich cultural diversity but also a wide range of accommodation options, catering to everyone’s needs. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, the city offers an array of housing types, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For overseas students, websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom serve as invaluable resources for checking out potential living spaces online. These platforms enable you to browse properties, compare facilities, and evaluate their distance to public transportation links. On the other hand, local students often benefit from the ability to arrange in-person viewings.
### Securing My Spot in Central London
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be situated near significant attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend heavily on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options greatly lessen commuting costs for students. For longer journeys, London Overground and National Rail services provide routes beyond the Underground network, enhancing connectivity.
However, residing in Central London comes with a significant cost. To keep expenses manageable, I decided to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to substantially reduce our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, which enabled me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a crucial consideration. London features numerous supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those seeking to economize. Proximity to essential outlets, including supermarkets and pharmacies, is especially beneficial during hectic periods, like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming due to the city’s vast diversity. The various ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that offer a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, hosting numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the core of London’s West End provides a bustling hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a snapshot of the city’s multicultural vibrancy.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural neighborhoods, its convenience, or its lively social environment, London offers something for everyone.
As you embark on your quest for a new home in this incredible city, take a moment to discover its varied accommodation alternatives and immerse yourself in its rich cultural landscape. Living in London is not merely about identifying a place to stay—it’s about seizing the unique experiences and opportunities this city provides.
*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/)*