**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Though this may appear to be a brief period, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire several key insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its multicultural populations. Particularly for students, a multitude of options is available. Choices range from student accommodations to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and shared facilities, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is relatively simple, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine housing online, evaluate facilities, and verify closeness to public transport routes.
When I commenced my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London. My intention was to remain in proximity to major landmarks, social venues, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The superb public transport system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs potentially reaching £5.25. To economize, I opted to stroll short distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides economical travel solutions for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, servicing outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing model of the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London brings certain advantages but also steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also pursuing studies. This setup significantly cut our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as I wanted to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—an experience that private rentals might not have readily provided.
Easy access to grocery stores played a critical role in my decision-making. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Living near vital stores, including pharmacies, was incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic exam seasons when every moment counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s ethnic neighborhoods form a fundamental aspect of its cultural makeup, presenting a rich blend of diverse localities. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the essence of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its substantial South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a thriving center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are merely a handful of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the most suitable location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are delving into the city’s diverse housing options, engaging with its cultural communities, or relishing the efficiency of its world-renowned transport network, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, richness, and thrill of this extraordinary city as you search for your new residence.
*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/)*