**Living in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although this period might not appear extensive, it has offered me several important insights regarding this dynamic and multifaceted city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a plethora of housing options and bustling communities. For students, the city features a multitude of living arrangements, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can easily schedule in-person viewings for apartments, international students often turn to online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties, check amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my accommodation search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, allowing me to remain near prominent attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement across zones. Nonetheless, travel between zones can become expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To mitigate travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system provides more economical options for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting outer zones with varying fare structures based on distance.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably decreased our rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to interact with peers from a mix of backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private housing.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was paramount. London has a variety of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland that cater to those wanting to save. Proximity to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies proved incredibly convenient, especially during high-pressure times like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities enrich its cultural fabric, providing an array of distinct neighbourhoods. Numerous international students lean toward areas that evoke memories of home. For instance:
– **Southall** (West London) is recognized for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton** (South London) is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown** (West End) is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the varied communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Maximizing Your London Experience
Ultimately, the best locale to reside in hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re exploring housing choices, delving into cultural neighborhoods, or navigating the city’s efficient transport system, London offers limitless opportunities. Embrace the diversity, convenience, and thrill of this extraordinary city as you seek your new home.
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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/)*