**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Life in the City**

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

Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me the opportunity to grasp several important insights about existence in this dynamic city. London showcases a wealth of cultural diversity alongside a variety of accommodation choices. Regardless of whether you are a student or a working professional, there are numerous options available to match your requirements. From student residences to private rentals, you can discover everything ranging from ensuite rooms to shared flats, studios, and house shares. For home students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated, while international students can depend on services such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.

When I commenced my housing search, I aimed at securing a room in Central London. My objective was to be near significant attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s robust public transport system—including the Underground (known as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between these zones. However, I sought to curtail my travel expenses, as moving between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often walked short distances rather than taking public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university considerably more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the city center. The fares for these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of the respective train companies.

Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also presents challenges—particularly concerning the high living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rent burden. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of encountering students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that might have been more challenging in private housing.

A major factor I considered while selecting my residence was the closeness to grocery shops. Some of London’s most prevalent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies has proven to be a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.

Choosing the ideal neighborhood can be a challenging task. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in the city’s cultural tapestry, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to favor areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London has a notable South Asian community, known for its abundance of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London serves as a vibrant center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of the numerous culturally rich locales found in London.

In the end, the optimal area to reside in is contingent upon your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant social atmosphere or a tranquil residential setting, London has something to cater to everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new abode, take the time to explore the city’s diverse accommodation options, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and excitement London has to offer.

*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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