**Experiencing Life in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, it has provided me with insights into life in this lively and diverse metropolis. London is not only home to a vast selection of housing options but also a remarkable mix of communities that contribute to the city’s uniqueness. For students, the options are plentiful, ranging from student residences to private rentals, with choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, booking apartment viewings is fairly simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for potential housing online. These websites offer information on amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial details, facilitating the process for those relocating from overseas.
### Securing a Place to Live
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social spots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—makes it straightforward to travel between zones.
However, traveling between zones might incur costs of up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances to cut down on transport expenses. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has proven invaluable, considerably lowering travel costs. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones with the city center.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also steep living expenses. To mitigate costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which provided an opportunity to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an aspect that is often trickier with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a significant priority. Major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students on stricter budgets. Living close to essential shops, including pharmacies, was indispensable, especially during exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of experiences. Many international students tend to favor areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify the city’s cultural diversity.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the most suitable place to reside in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are drawn to the city’s cultural hubs or its central attractions, London has something for everyone. As you search for a new residence, take the opportunity to explore the diversity and richness of its neighborhoods, appreciate the convenience of its world-class transport system, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary city.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*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/)*