**Exploring London: My Journey with Student Housing**

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

Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained significant insights into the city and its distinct offerings. London is a lively and diverse hub, not only in terms of its accommodation options but also regarding the multitude of communities that reside here. For students, there is an abundance of choices available when it comes to housing. Whether you prefer student residences or private lodging, you’ll encounter a variety of options such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.

When I initiated my housing search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major landmarks, social hotspots, and, of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement around. Nonetheless, I was eager to keep my travel expenses low, as commuting between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transit. That said, the Oyster card system has made commuting more budget-friendly for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.

Residing in Central London has its benefits; however, it also entails increased living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted to stay in intercollegiate student housing, as I wanted to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging in private accommodations.

For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more cost-effective alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, especially during hectic times like exam periods.

Selecting the ideal neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a wealth of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students prefer locations that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian community, featuring an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End showcases a bustling array of Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the rich neighborhoods you can explore in London.

In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is dependent on your individual interests and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.

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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