**Experiencing London: Nine Months of Learning and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London, and while it may not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient to acquire several important lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is well-known not just for its varied housing options, but also for the rich blend of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing selections, including student accommodations and private rentals, featuring options such as ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and houses in multiple occupation.

For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and examine how close they are to public transport links.

### Securing a Place to Reside
When I initiated my room rental search, I concentrated on Central London. I desired to be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—makes it simple to move between zones.

To minimize travel expenses, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport, as traveling between zones can run up to £5.25 daily. For longer journeys, I discovered that employing an Oyster card considerably lessened costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, encompassing outer zones. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific train operator.

Living in Central London indeed comes with a significant expense, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to reduce our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that private rentals might lack.

### Access to Necessities
For me, being close to grocery stores was a high priority. London boasts an assortment of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also easily accessible. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam seasons.

### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is no small feat. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural vibrancy, presenting a multitude of lively enclaves. Many international students tend to gravitate toward locations that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.

For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the centre of the West End features a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the diverse communities that render London exceptional.

### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re searching for a new residence, immersing yourself in cultural enclaves, or simply absorbing the city’s vibrance, London presents an unparalleled mix of diversity, convenience, and excitement.

Residing in London has been an extraordinary experience, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more about this remarkable city in the upcoming months.

*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*

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