**Experiencing Life in London: Insights from a Student on Housing and Community**
*Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months might appear brief, it has provided ample time to gain insights about this lively city. London is an energetic hub, not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the multitude of communities that reside within its boundaries. For students, options for accommodation abound. Whether exploring student halls or private rentals, there is a wide range of choices from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared homes and individual rooms. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while those from overseas can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine listings online, review facilities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
When I started my hunt for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London. Being close to the city’s foremost attractions, lively spots, and, naturally, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s extensive public transport system, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation. However, I was eager to minimize my travel expenses, as moving between zones can accumulate costs up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has made commuting to classes significantly cheaper. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the individual fare structures of each train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, yet it also entails steeper living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aspiring to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend that’s often less accessible in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery shops was crucial. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more affordable choices. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in the city’s cultural tapestry, providing an impressive variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students hunt for areas that resonate with memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of the multitude of community-oriented neighborhoods in London.
In the end, the best location to settle in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new residence in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to delve into the various accommodation alternatives, engage with the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London 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/)