**Living in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. While this might appear to be a brief period, it has been ample for me to gain meaningful perspectives about life in this bustling city. London is well-known not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse cultural communities. Students have access to a multitude of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To minimize transport expenses, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option.
The Overground and National Rail services in London reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator. Residing in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to major attractions but also comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that would have been more challenging to find in private housing.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a major priority. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students wanting to save. Having easy access to essential shops and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s immense diversity. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to favor areas that echo the culture of their native countries.
– **Southall** (West London): Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, Southall features Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton** (South London): Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community, Brixton serves as a center for lively music and culture.
– **Chinatown** (Central London): Situated in the West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous culturally vibrant neighborhoods London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal residence in London hinges on one’s personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its lively central areas, London provides a plethora of accommodation choices to cater to every lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
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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/)*