**Exploring London: A Student’s Take on Living Arrangements and Urban Life**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may not appear extensive, I’ve gained some significant perspectives during this time. London is an ever-evolving city, characterized not only by its plentiful accommodation opportunities but also by the rich variety of communities that inhabit it. For students, there is an abundance of housing alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online, evaluate available facilities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
When I initiated my quest for a place to stay, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. I desired to be near the city’s major sites, social hubs, and of course, near the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transportation system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal commutes can add up to £5.25 per day. To conserve funds, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or Tube. Thankfully, the Oyster card options have made commuting to university much more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system. Fares for those services vary based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator.
Residing in Central London offers various advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from different backgrounds and a similar age group—an experience that would be more difficult with private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most common supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies close by is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during exam periods when every second is crucial.
Selecting the perfect neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of the city, showcasing a rich array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End is an active hub filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of the numerous community-centric neighbourhoods across London.
In conclusion, the ideal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and necessities. While searching for a new home in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, explore its cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city presents.
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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/)