**Experiencing Life and Accommodation in London: A Firsthand Account**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months might appear brief, it has provided me with ample opportunities to discover some essential insights about residing in this lively metropolis. London showcases not only a wealth of accommodation types but also a variety of communities that inhabit it. Students particularly benefit from numerous options, from student residences to private rentals. These possibilities encompass ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For UK-based students, arranging apartment viewings is generally simple, while those from abroad can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to research potential housing, review available features, and examine their distance from public transport.
When I initiated my quest for a residence, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key landmarks, social areas, and, importantly, Imperial College’s campus was a priority for me. London consists of six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s efficient transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these zones. Nevertheless, I was conscious of the expenses linked to inter-zonal travel, which can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I elected to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. That being said, the Oyster card system has rendered my commute to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing scheme of the train operator.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails substantial living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share accommodation, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an aspect that could have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
One of my key considerations was finding a place near grocery outlets. Some popular supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous timesaver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in shaping its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples showcasing the myriad of diverse communities that render London special.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is subjective and hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your journey to find a new home in this vibrant city, take the opportunity to delve into its diverse accommodation offerings, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement 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/)*