**Living in London: Nine Months of Education and Experiences**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London—a brief duration, yet packed with significant lessons and insights. London is a metropolis that pulses with life, not solely in its varied living arrangements but also in the vibrant mix of communities that populate it. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student housing to private residences, including ensuite and shared restrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently set up in-person apartment tours, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential places to stay online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport links.
When I commenced my housing search, my intention was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key sites, social hotspots, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two making up the city’s heart. The robust transport infrastructure—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones. However, moving between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To minimize travel expenses, I decided to walk shorter lengths instead of depending on public transportation. For university journeys, oyster card options significantly lessen travel costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground, covering outer areas. However, the fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of the respective train operators.
Residing in Central London offers distinct advantages, but it also entails increased living expenses. Fortunately, I had the chance to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save a considerable amount on rent. I opted to live in intercollegiate student residences since they offered a chance to meet fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more difficult in private rentals.
Accessibility to supermarkets factored heavily into my decision-making. Well-known chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more cost-effective options. Living near crucial stores such as groceries and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London is no simple feat. The city’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural essence, providing a vast array of diverse neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students are drawn to areas mirroring the comforts of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its substantial South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End stands out as a bustling centre of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of London’s rich cultural districts.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re exploring the city’s varied housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or enjoying the ease of its transport system, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the variety, richness, and thrill of this extraordinary city as you embark on your search for a new home.
*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/)*