**Exploring London’s Housing as a Student: My Journey**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although that might not seem extensive, I’ve gained a handful of valuable observations throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not only boasting a plethora of housing choices but also showcasing a rich tapestry of communities. For students, there’s an abundance of accommodation available at their fingertips. Whether you’re interested in student residences or private leases, there are options for all preferences—ranging from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse housing online, review facilities, and evaluate how close they are to public transport.
In my own quest, I was enthusiastic about securing a room in Central London. I desired proximity to the city’s premier attractions, popular meeting spots, and of course, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s transportation network—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. However, I aimed to reduce my travel expenses, as crossing zones can lead to costs reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter routes instead of relying on the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card can significantly diminish commuting costs to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving regions outside the central zone. The ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare policy.
Residing in Central London offers advantages—such as being near key attractions—but it also entails elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodation, as I was eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that tends to be more challenging with private rentals.
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key stores like groceries and pharmacies saves a significant amount of time, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an integral aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a myriad of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population, offering numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown, located in the centre of London’s West End, is a thriving area packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of the city’s varied neighbourhoods.
Ultimately, the ideal location for living in London hinges on your individual tastes and requirements. When seeking accommodation in this city, embrace the multitude and vibrancy of options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that London presents.
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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/)*