**Reflecting on Life and Housing in London: A Personal Insight**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my London residency. Although it may appear as a brief period, I have gathered a significant amount of experience along the way. London is an ever-evolving and multicultural city, distinguished not only by its accommodation variations but also by the rich tapestry of communities that inhabit it. Students have an abundance of housing alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals. Choices cover ensuite and shared bathrooms, both private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule viewings in person, whereas international students can turn to online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing, examine facilities, and gauge proximity to transport links.
In my quest for living space, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. I aspired to be near the city’s prominent attractions, vibrant social spots, and of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the heart of the city. The city’s remarkable transport network—comprising the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement and travel across zones. Nevertheless, I was eager to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 a day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or Tube. Nonetheless, an Oyster card has made commuting to university considerably more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Tube network, allowing coverage of regions outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare scheme of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs due to its desirability and closeness to major landmarks. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rental expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been harder to achieve in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was essential for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being in proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, especially during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form an integral aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students search for locales that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the many community-centered neighbourhoods in London.
In the end, the ideal neighbourhood in London is contingent upon your unique interests and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new abode in this metropolis, take time to explore the diverse housing options, immerse yourself in the multi-faceted cultural enclaves, and embrace the convenience and excitement that London has to offer.
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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/)*