**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months might not be perceived as an extended period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this time. London is a remarkably dynamic city, characterized not only by its wide-ranging accommodations but also by the diverse and vibrant communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing opportunities right at their fingertips. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, options abound—from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared or solo rooms, studio flats, or even house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I commenced my search for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I desired to be near key attractions, popular hangout spots, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement and travel between zones with ease. Nonetheless, I aimed to minimize my commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. That being said, the Oyster card options greatly reduced the commuting costs to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside Central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance and fare structures of individual train operators.
Residing in Central London brings numerous benefits, but it also comes with elevated living expenses due to its closeness to significant attractions. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which enabled us to save considerably on rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the opportunity to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend that would be more challenging to encounter in the private rental market.
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Some well-known supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies really saves time, particularly during hectic times like exam seasons.
Determining the ideal neighbourhood to reside in can be tricky. The ethnic communities in London significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students arriving in London seek the comfort of familiar elements from their home countries within the city. For instance, Southall located in West London has a prominent South Asian community, filled with countless Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of the community-centric neighbourhoods throughout London.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in London will depend on your individual interests and requirements. When embarking on the quest for a new residence in this city, embrace its diversity and variety in accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement that London has in store.
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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/)