**Living in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, it has been ample time for me to acquire several important insights regarding life in this dynamic and multicultural metropolis. London boasts not only a wide range of housing options but also a diverse array of communities that contribute to its distinct character. For students, the city presents countless accommodation alternatives, from student housing to private leases, including ensuite rooms, shared living, studio flats, and house sharing.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly easy. In contrast, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential living arrangements online, review available features, and consider distance to public transport connections.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my hunt for suitable lodging, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key landmarks, social gathering spots, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. London’s outstanding transit network—including the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates seamless travel across zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Travel between zones can tally up to £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly lowers commuting costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services complement the Underground, linking areas beyond Central London. However, ticket prices for these options fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the operating companies.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of closeness to famous landmarks, but it also comes with increased living expenses. To economize, my friend and I opted to share a room, which allowed us to make substantial savings on rent. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student residences, as they provided an opportunity to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private arrangements might not have afforded.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, finding accommodation near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also within reach. Living near vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is extremely handy, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s magnitude and variety. The ethnic communities in London significantly contribute to the city’s cultural essence, providing a wide range of neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward locales that evoke memories of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, presenting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean vibe and vibrant music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End of London is a lively area filled with Chinese restaurants, boutiques, and cultural happenings. These areas are just a few examples of the city’s lively cultural centers.
### Embracing London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on individual interests and requirements. Whether you are seeking a new dwelling or simply exploring the city, London’s varied living choices, cultural neighborhoods, and excellent transport links render it an extraordinary city to inhabit.
My time here has been a truly enriching journey, and I urge anyone relocating to London to embrace its diversity, engage with its communities, and revel in the convenience and thrill that this remarkable city has to offer.
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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/)*