**Exploring London: My Journey with Housing and City Lifestyle**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone residing in London. Although it might not seem extensive, I have amassed considerable knowledge throughout my time here. London is a vibrant city, not only with its multitude of housing alternatives but also through the rich tapestry of its communities. Students benefit from an abundance of choices available. Whether they opt for student residences or private lodgings, the selections include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living options, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport—all from the comfort of their own homes.
As I commenced my housing search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I desired to remain in proximity to the city’s major landmarks, social centers, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s public transit system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between these zones. Personally, I sought to reduce travel expenses, as traversing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or Tube. Nonetheless, using an Oyster card remarkably lowers transportation costs for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the specific train operator’s pricing structure.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs owing to the closeness of major attractions. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, intending to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that would have been more challenging to find in private housing.
For me, residing near grocery stores was imperative. Some of the predominant supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also nearby. Having quick access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities within London are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a wide array of neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards regions that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, complete with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of the numerous culturally rich neighbourhoods throughout London.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your unique interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in this city, relish the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, explore the cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and excitement that London provides.
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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/)