**Experiencing Accommodation and Life in London: My Journey**

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

Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone living in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights about the city during this time. London is a lively and multifaceted metropolis, showcasing not just a variety of accommodation types but also the vibrant communities that thrive here. There are abundant housing options available for students, right at their fingertips. Whether you’re interested in student residences or private flats, the choices range from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students have an easy time arranging apartment visits, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing options online, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.

During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on finding a room to rent in Central London. My aim was to be near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and of course, the Imperial College campus. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s transportation system is top-notch, featuring the Underground (widely known as the Tube), buses, and trains, making movement between zones comparatively straightforward. However, traveling between different zones can become pricey, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To keep travel expenses down, I often chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or Tube. Nonetheless, the various Oyster card options have made commuting to school significantly more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the inner zones, delivering broader coverage. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator.

Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also means elevated living expenses due to the city’s prime attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent costs. I went for intercollegiate student accommodations because I was eager to connect with students from different backgrounds and of a similar age—a prospect that would have been more difficult in private housing.

A primary concern for me was living near supermarkets. Some of the most frequented chains in London comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being located close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during busier times like exam periods.

Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for areas that evoke feelings of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, offering numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods in London.

In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you venture out in search of a new abode in this city, take the opportunity to investigate the varied accommodation selections, immerse yourself in the cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement that 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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