**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month mark of my time in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during these months. London is a vibrant and eclectic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied accommodation alternatives but also by the lively communities it hosts. Students have numerous housing options available to them. Choices range from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while those from abroad can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate features, and check closeness to public transport.
When I started my accommodation hunt, my priority was securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. However, I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as journeys between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, an Oyster card has significantly reduced my commuting expenses to the university. Moreover, London’s Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Prices for these services depend on the distance and the specific fare system of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to key attractions, but it also comes with elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was studying alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly helped with our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to achieve in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Among the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, replete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few of the many community-centric neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new home in this city, embrace the plethora of accommodation opportunities, discover its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that life in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities can offer.
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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/)