**Exploring Life and Accommodation in London: My Personal Experience**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve acquired a good deal of insight regarding this lively city. London boasts a rich diversity not just in its housing options but also in the communities that inhabit it. For students, there are numerous choices readily available. From student residences to private rentals, the options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. For local students, setting up a viewing for an apartment is generally uncomplicated, whereas international students can utilize online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements, evaluate amenities, and determine the proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, notably, the Imperial College campus, was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The public transport system here is outstanding, with the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains facilitating easy movement across zones. Nevertheless, I sought to keep my travel expenses to a minimum, as travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or Tube. Fortunately, the Oyster card options provide a more budget-friendly way to commute to university. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to outlying areas, with fares differing based on distance and specific train operators.
Residing in Central London brings certain advantages but also a hefty living cost. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to a notable decrease in our rent. I chose intercollegiate housing because I wanted the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging in private housing.
One of my main considerations was being near grocery stores. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget options comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, particularly during hectic periods such as exam weeks.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities throughout London contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is noted for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its vibrant music scene. In the heart of the West End, Chinatown is a bustling locale filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of the variety of community neighbourhoods available in London.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home, appreciate the diversity and abundance of London’s accommodation possibilities, delve into its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and allure this extraordinary city presents.
—
*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/)*