**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**

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

Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, this duration has allowed me to grasp several aspects of this dynamic city. London is extraordinarily lively, characterized not only by its diverse accommodation choices but also by its rich community fabric. Students find themselves with an abundance of options when it comes to housing. Whether in search of student residences or private lodgings, there are numerous alternatives—ranging from ensuite and studio bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually assess potential living spaces, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.

In my personal quest for housing, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key attractions, social venues, and of course, the campus of Imperial College was a priority. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel. However, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can reach £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, having an Oyster card has made university commutes far more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, covering areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and train operators.

Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I desired to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that could be more difficult with private housing.

For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the leading supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also exist. Having essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies within close reach is a significant time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exams.

Selecting the right neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are an integral part of its cultural identity, providing an impressive range of neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, complete with various Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a dynamic center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify the diverse locales London has in store.

Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and needs. As you embark on your search for a home, take the opportunity to delve into the city’s varied accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and take pleasure in all that this exceptional city 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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