**Exploring London: A Student’s Handbook for Housing and City Living**

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

Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not constitute a lengthy period, it has granted me sufficient time to grasp several crucial insights about life in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich diversity not only in its housing alternatives but also in the varied communities that inhabit it. For students, a multitude of living arrangements are available, spanning from accommodations designed for students to private rental options. Choices encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule on-site viewings, while those from abroad can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and gauge access to public transport networks.

As I commenced my hunt for accommodation, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. Being near the city’s main attractions, social venues, and of course, the Imperial College campus, was essential to me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the initial two zones being the most central. The city’s exceptional transport system—featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, I aimed to keep my travel costs low, as commuting between zones can be as high as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transit. Nonetheless, using an Oyster card has greatly reduced my commuting expenses to university. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside of the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the specific train operator chosen.

Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails significant living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an opportunity that would have been harder to find in private housing.

Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options are Lidl, Aldi, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.

Selecting the ideal neighbourhood to reside in can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an integral element of the city’s cultural fabric, presenting various unique neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, featuring an extensive array of Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few of the numerous diverse neighbourhoods scattered throughout the city.

Ultimately, the most suitable location in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on the search for your new abode, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.

*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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