**Exploring London: Insights from a Student on Housing and Lifestyle**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this time. London is an exceptionally lively city, characterized not only by its myriad of housing choices but also by the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, there’s an abundance of living arrangements available, including student residences and private housing, with options such as ensuite bathrooms, shared facilities, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Local students have the advantage of arranging physical apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and check how close they are to public transport options.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to be near key sights, social venues, and, naturally, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transit network, comprising the Underground (widely known as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across different zones. Personally, I sought to keep my travel expenses low, as traversing zones could amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or Tube. However, an Oyster card drastically cuts down commuting expenses for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services also connect areas beyond the Underground network, with fares that fluctuate based on distance and the specific train company’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but the cost of living is evidently high because of the closeness to main attractions. Luckily, I had the chance to share a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rent expenses. I particularly favored intercollegiate student accommodations because I wished to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something harder to achieve in private rentals.
One of my key considerations was proximity to grocery stores. Among the most prevalent supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being adjacent to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the essence of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, boasting numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of the culturally vibrant neighborhoods the city offers.
In the end, the optimal area to settle in London relies on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in this city, take the time to discover the diverse accommodation alternatives, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London 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/)