**Experience of Life in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might appear to be a short duration, it has been sufficient for me to gain extensive insights about this lively city. London is not only rich in its housing choices but also brimming with various communities, making it a genuinely vibrant place to reside. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing options, from student residences to private accommodations. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I started my quest for a new home, my goal was to find a rental in Central London to remain near significant sights, social centers, and the Imperial College campus. London consists of six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with costs reaching up to £5.25 daily. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card offered a cost-effective solution. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the pricing policies of train operators.
Residing in Central London, however, carries a hefty cost. To keep expenses in check, I decided to share a room with a fellow student friend. This arrangement considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another vital aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those aiming to save money. Living in proximity to essential stores proved crucial, especially during hectic times like exam periods, as it freed up valuable time for other tasks.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s multicultural communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, presenting numerous unique neighborhoods. Many international students are attracted to areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural hubs that make London exceptional.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is shaped by your personal choices and priorities. Whether you are captivated by the city’s diverse housing options, its rich cultural fabric, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the experience of finding your new home in this extraordinary city and enjoy all that it provides.
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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/)*