**Experiencing Life and Housing in London: A Personal Journey**

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

Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to grasp several aspects of life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its wide array of accommodation choices but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there are numerous housing options available, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals. You can select from ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, or even house shares. For home students, the process of arranging a viewing is simple, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential residences, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.

During my quest for a place to stay, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I desired to be near the key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, easing movement across these zones. Nevertheless, I was keen on reducing my travel expenses, as journeys between zones could amount to as much as £5.25 each day. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying solely on public transport. Nonetheless, the Oyster card system significantly lowers commuting costs to the university. Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside Central London, though fares vary based on distance and the specific train operators.

Residing in Central London does have a considerable cost, given its closeness to major attractions. Luckily, I was able to co-share a room with a friend, which greatly minimized our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to meet fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that would have been more difficult in private accommodations.

A significant priority for me was being near grocery stores. Some of the most popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is greatly beneficial, especially during hectic times like exam sessions.

Selecting the perfect neighborhood can be quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vast range of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to favor areas that remind them of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is distinguished by its sizeable South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples among the many diverse neighborhoods available in London.

In the end, the ideal place to reside will depend on your individual tastes and needs. As you navigate your search for a new home in London, take the time to explore the city’s varied accommodation choices, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and embrace the convenience and excitement that 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/)

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