**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and City Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my residence in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, it has been quite an enlightening experience. London is a dynamic and multicultural metropolis, showcasing not only varied housing options but also its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of choices when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re considering student residences or private rentals, the options abound, from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, including studio apartments and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange physical viewings, while international students can use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential housing, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across the city. Nonetheless, I aimed to reduce my commuting expenses since traveling between zones can reach £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. That being said, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, which is beneficial for university journeys. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the tube’s coverage, with fares varying based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider.
Residing in Central London offers distinct advantages, but it also entails a higher cost of living. Fortunately, I was able to share accommodations with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets in London feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary stores like grocery outlets and pharmacies is a genuine time saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities significantly enrich its cultural diversity, presenting a multitude of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Centrally located in the West End, Chinatown boasts a lively blend of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a fraction of the many community-rich neighborhoods in London.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on individual tastes and requirements. When searching for a new home in this city, take advantage of the varied accommodation selections, delve into its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London has in store.
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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/)*