**Living in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might appear to be a brief period, it has been ample time to accumulate significant insights regarding life in this lively city. London is not just famous for its vast array of accommodation options but also for the diverse tapestry of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a vast selection of housing alternatives, from student lodgings to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For students studying at home, arranging an apartment viewing is relatively uncomplicated. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These websites offer comprehensive information about amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search significantly.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. Living in the heart of the city meant being near major landmarks, vibrant social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s broad transport network—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to as much as £5.25 a day for trips between zones, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I made use of an Oyster card, which significantly lowered travel costs. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. However, the fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages, but it also comes with steep living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a university friend. This situation allowed us to save considerably on rent. I decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living near grocery stores was of utmost importance. London boasts various supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those looking to economize. Being in proximity to essential establishments, like supermarkets and pharmacies, proved indispensable, particularly during exam seasons when time is scarce.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s vastness and variety. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural wealth, providing a multitude of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that resonate with the comforts of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, offers a bustling neighborhood filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of the cultural enclaves throughout the city.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent upon your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse accommodation options, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of its transport links, London has something for everyone. My suggestion? Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its rich cultural heritage, and take full advantage of the thrill and opportunities this extraordinary metropolis presents.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized 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/)*