**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge in this time. London is an ever-evolving and multifaceted city, reflected not only in its accommodation choices but also in the wide array of communities that inhabit it. For students, there’s an abundance of housing alternatives available right at their fingertips. From student dormitories to private rentals, options vary from ensuite and suite-style bathrooms to shared or private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to peruse potential lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, lively social areas, and of course, the Imperial College campus was a priority. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. Personally, I strove to keep my travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commutes can escalate to £5.25 daily. I frequently chose to walk shorter routes instead of taking the bus or Tube. However, employing an Oyster card has significantly reduced my commuting costs to the university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s specific fare structure.
Residing in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to major attractions, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, seeking to engage with a diverse group of students of similar age—an opportunity less likely in private accommodations.
For me, living within reach of grocery stores was essential. Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are a fundamental component of the city’s social landscape, offering a fascinating mix of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students search for areas reminiscent of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional fashion boutiques. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in London’s bustling West End, is a lively locale filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the many community-centric neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal neighbourhood to reside in London relies on your individual preferences and requirements. As you seek a new home in this vibrant metropolis, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that London provides.
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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/)