**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and though that might not feel extensive, I have gained a considerable understanding of life in this vibrant city. London boasts a rich diversity not only in its cultures and communities but also in its housing alternatives. Students can select from a variety of options, including student accommodations and private rentals, with choices such as ensuite and shared baths, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore properties online. These sites offer insights into amenities, public transit connections, and other vital factors to weigh when selecting a living space.
### Locating the Ideal Area
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s extensive transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I preferred to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options help lower travel costs for students.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific train operator. Although residing in Central London may be costly due to its closeness to major attractions, I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent.
I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, looking to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, it was essential to live near grocery stores. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op can be found, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Having important stores and pharmacies in the vicinity is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic exam seasons when every moment counts.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can prove difficult, as the city is a melting pot of ethnic communities, each adding to its vibrant cultural landscape. Many international students look for areas that provide a sense of familiarity.
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its large South Asian population, Southall has many Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These represent just a handful of London’s diverse neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct experience.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether affordability, closeness to university, or cultural familiarity matters most to you, London has a multitude of accommodation possibilities to cater to various lifestyles. Embracing the city’s diversity, uncovering its cultural hubs, and taking full advantage of its conveniences can enrich your experience in London.
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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/)