**Exploring Housing Options in London: A Personal Journey**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe might not sound extensive, I have gained some significant understanding during these months. London is a vibrant and multifaceted city, reflected not only in its housing selections but also in the diversity of communities that thrive here. Students are fortunate to have a plethora of housing choices, from student residences to private rentals. These range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings, evaluate available amenities, and gauge the distance to public transport.
In my personal quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key attractions, social venues, and notably, Imperial College’s campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system, including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation across zones. However, transport costs can accumulate—travelling between zones might reach as high as £5.25 daily. To curb expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on buses or the Tube. Nevertheless, using an Oyster card can greatly decrease commuting costs for students. For those living in outlying areas, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, although fares vary according to distance and each train operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, yet it also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share accommodation with a friend, which substantially lessened our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores close by was essential for me. Some prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a great time saver, especially during hectic times like exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can prove to be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students tend to flock towards areas that echo their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, offering various Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the bustling West End features an extensive range of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples barely scratch the surface of the myriad community-centric neighbourhoods in London.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home, take in the city’s diversity, venture into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London has in store.
—
*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/)*