**Exploring Housing in London: Insights from a Student**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may seem brief, this period has afforded me a wealth of insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich cultural diversity as well as a variety of housing options that cater to students. Whether you’re seeking student accommodations or private rentals, there is an array of choices available, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, explore amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for housing, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to remain in close proximity to the city’s key attractions, social spots, and, of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. The city’s superb transport network, which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between these zones. Nonetheless, I was eager to cut down on travel expenses, as commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to stroll short distances rather than depend on public transportation. However, the Oyster card system has made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, both the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas situated outside of central London. Fare rates for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure set by the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a companion, significantly reducing our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations because I was eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that would be more challenging in private housing.
The location of grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Some prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas more cost-effective alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential suppliers like supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood is a challenge, given that London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural wealth. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian community, featuring a selection of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate merely a fraction of the myriad vibrant neighbourhoods that London presents.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you look for your new dwelling, consider exploring the city’s diverse housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London provides.
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*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/)