**Experiencing Accommodation and Life in London: A Nine-Month Review**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to obtain some significant perspectives. London is an ever-evolving and multicultural metropolis, not only in its multitude of accommodation alternatives but also in the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, numerous housing options are readily available. Whether it’s student residences or private rentals, choices vary from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential living spaces online, examine the facilities, and evaluate its accessibility to public transport.
In my own quest for accommodation, I concentrated on locating a room for rent in Central London. My objective was to be in proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, certainly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transportation network, comprising the underground (referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation between various zones. Personally, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as journeys between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I decided to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card has significantly decreased my commuting expenses to university. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central regions. The fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s specific fare structure.
Dwelling in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to major attractions, yet it also brings about elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I chose to reside in intercollegiate student housing to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging through private leasing.
A major priority for me was living close to supermarkets. Among the most prevalent grocery stores in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a genuine time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London form an essential part of its cultural tapestry, providing a diverse range of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students seek out areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music landscape. Conversely, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods found throughout the city.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re looking for a new place to live or simply exploring the city, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.
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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/)