**Exploring Student Housing in London: My Journey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve gained substantial insights about residing in this dynamic city. London presents a variety of accommodation choices, serving students from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re seeking student lodgings or private rentals, numerous options exist, from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. On the other hand, international students can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport before making a choice.
### Identifying the Ideal Location
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a rental in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and most significantly, Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The extensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones effortlessly.
To decrease travel expenses (which can reach £5.25 per day for inter-zonal travel), I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transportation. Nevertheless, using an Oyster card substantially lessens commuting costs for university students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail provide services that extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing outer zones with different fare arrangements.
Residing in Central London entails considerable living expenses, so I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I also favored intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that might be more elusive in private rentals.
### Importance of Nearby Grocery Stores
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most widely used supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more economical choices. Having essential stores and pharmacies close at hand is incredibly handy, especially during exam seasons when time is scarce.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing an area in London can be daunting due to the city’s rich diversity. Numerous international students look for neighborhoods that mirror the culture of their homeland. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its significant South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Noted for its Afro-Caribbean populace and vibrant music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A lively district populated with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These examples represent only a fraction of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s distinct character.
### Concluding Reflections
The optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize cost-effectiveness, closeness to university, or cultural resonance, the city has a plethora of accommodation choices. Embracing London’s diversity, exploring various neighborhoods, and leveraging its exceptional transport framework will enrich your experience in this vibrant city.
—
**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/)