**Experiencing Life in London: A Nine-Month Reflection**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is famed not just for its wide array of housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods that make it their home. For students, the city presents numerous options, ranging from student accommodations to private living arrangements, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite easy. In contrast, international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential accommodations online. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities, proximity to public transport, and other crucial considerations.
### Securing the Right Accommodation
When I initiated my search for a place to reside, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to live near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. The city’s extensive transport system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can be priced at up to £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. For those needing to travel beyond the Underground network, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outward zones, although fare structures differ based on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails higher living costs. To manage these expenses, I resolved to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. Furthermore, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an aspect that’s generally less accessible in private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
Being in close proximity to grocery stores was a major consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to cut costs. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, proves particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam seasons, as it saves valuable time and effort when handling errands.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighborhoods
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be a tough task due to the city’s extensive cultural diversity. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its character, presenting a plethora of unique neighborhoods to discover.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Simultaneously, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods offer international students a sense of familiarity and connection to their cultural roots.
### Identifying Your Perfect Spot
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London varies based on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural enclaves of the city or its central landmarks, London has something to offer everyone. As you look for your new home, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation choices, engage with its vibrant communities, and relish the convenience and thrill that London presents.
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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/)*