**Experiencing London: A Nine-Month Reflection**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, it has provided me with crucial understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural populace. Students, especially, have a multitude of housing alternatives available, from student accommodations to private residences. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport connections.
When I initiated my search for accommodation, my focus was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city features a robust transportation system, including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zonal travel seamless. Nevertheless, traversing between zones can be pricey, with daily fares reaching as high as £5.25. To mitigate travel costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than resorting to public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly method. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing strategy of the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London offers various advantages, but it also comes with steep living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which greatly lessened our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations because I wanted to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups—a vibe that is more challenging to discover in private housing.
Another vital aspect for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic periods like exam weeks.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that echo their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling center for Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a few highlights of the city’s diverse cultural pockets.
In the end, the ideal neighborhood to inhabit in London is contingent upon your personal interests and priorities. Whether you are on the lookout for a new residence or simply wish to roam the city, London’s variety of housing options, cultural diversity, and exceptional convenience make it an extraordinary place to call home.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)*