**Exploring London: A Student’s Insights on Housing and Lifestyle**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not appear lengthy, it has granted me ample opportunity to grasp several essential insights about living in this lively metropolis. London showcases a vast array of housing options as well as diverse communities residing within it. Students specifically have an abundance of choices available. Whether opting for student residences or private rentals, possibilities vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students often depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, review available facilities, and gauge proximity to public transportation.
In my personal quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near the city’s key attractions, social scenes, and, naturally, the Imperial College campus was essential to me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two encompassing the heart of the city. The city boasts a comprehensive transport system, featuring the Underground (popularly referred to as the tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and inter-zone travel. However, I was eager to minimize my commuting expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to stroll short distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has significantly eased commuting to university. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. The pricing for inter-zone travel on these lines differs based on distance and the fare schedule of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers both advantages and disadvantages—especially concerning the steep living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which helped us considerably lower our rent. I also favored staying in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was keen on meeting peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging in private rental situations.
For me, convenience to grocery stores was vital. Some popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting choice. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in the city’s cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comforts of home in London. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, complete with numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few instances of the many community-centric neighborhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal area for residing in London depends on your personal preferences and requirements. While searching for accommodation in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city 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/)