**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months since relocating to London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London showcases a wide range of accommodation types, alongside a multitude of communities that inhabit it. Students have numerous housing options available, from student halls to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students from the UK, scheduling an apartment viewing is relatively simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse potential living spaces online, check for available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
### Identifying the Ideal Location
In my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the innermost zones, one and two, being the most central. London boasts a comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making inter-zone commutes relatively easy. However, traveling between zones can add up financially, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I decided to walk small distances rather than rely on public transport. Thankfully, various Oyster card options have made my university commutes more budget-friendly.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services connect to regions outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the fare structure of the train operators. While residing in Central London provides convenience, it also comes with high living expenses. To alleviate costs, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as they offered a chance to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds—something that would be more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
Having nearby grocery stores was critical for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely available, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to budget-conscious shoppers. Being in close proximity to essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands—especially during hectic exam times.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s rich tapestry of ethnic communities, each enhancing its cultural diversity. Many international students look for areas that resonate with the norms of their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, in the centre of London’s West End, presents a variety of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. These serve as just a few of the culturally vibrant communities throughout London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living situation in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you value cost-effectiveness, cultural familiarity, or closeness to university, London provides a broad spectrum of accommodation opportunities. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring its distinct neighbourhoods, and leveraging its exceptional transportation links can assist you in discovering the perfect place to call home.
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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/)*