**Living in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives about this lively and energetic city. London is not only a center for a variety of housing options but also a fusion of cultures and communities. For students, the city presents a wide array of housing alternatives, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These sites offer comprehensive information about amenities, accessibility to public transportation, and other crucial details, simplifying the search process significantly.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my search for a residence, I focused on finding a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transit system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
Nevertheless, inter-zonal travel can accumulate expenses, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To curtail expenditures, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel rates for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of Central London. While fares for these services vary by distance and operator, they offer a convenient means to explore the city and its suburbs.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages but also high living expenses. To alleviate costs, I chose to cohabit with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private housing seldom offers.
### Accessibility to Essentials
One of my primary considerations when selecting a residence was the convenience of grocery stores. London boasts a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students aiming to economize. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies proved crucial, particularly during examination periods when time was limited.
### Discovering London’s Rich Communities
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s profound cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London are intricately tied to its character, providing a colorful array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students are drawn to areas that echo their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End creates an immersive atmosphere with its Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse into the cultural enclaves that render London one-of-a-kind.
### Discovering Your Ideal Location
Ultimately, the best location to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the convenience of Central London, the cultural depth of diverse neighborhoods, or the affordability of outer zones, the city caters to every taste.
As you embark on your quest for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity, explore its cultural hotspots, and relish the thrill of living in one of the most extraordinary cities worldwide.
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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/)*