**Exploring Life and Housing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, it has afforded me the opportunity to grasp several important insights about existence in this vibrant city. London is celebrated not only for its wide selection of housing alternatives but also for its eclectic communities. Students, in particular, have a plethora of housing options available. From student residences to private rentals, choices abound, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is rather simple, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, examine the amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.

While I was looking for a living space, my preference was for a room in Central London. I desired to be near key attractions, social areas, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city offers an outstanding public transportation network that includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across different zones. For me, minimizing travel expenses was a priority since traveling between zones can total up to £5.25 each day. I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university more economical. Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach into areas beyond central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and each train operator’s fare structure.

Residing in Central London provides the advantage of proximity to major landmarks, yet it also entails higher living expenses. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a mix that might have been more challenging to discover in private accommodation.

One of my top priorities was to be situated near grocery stores. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also present. Being close to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves tremendous time, particularly during hectic periods like exam times.

Determining the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities are vital to the city’s cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students seek the comfort of their native cultures in London. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively center packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a glimpse of the numerous community-oriented neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.

In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in this city, I encourage you to appreciate the diversity and richness of London’s housing selections, delve into its cultural enclaves, and savor the accessibility and thrill that this extraordinary city presents.

*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/)

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