**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has sufficed for me to absorb and engage with the distinctive pulse of this lively city. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich diversity of communities that reside here. For scholars, the city presents an abundance of accommodation alternatives, ranging from student residences to private leases, inclusive of ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly easy. Nevertheless, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate prospective lodgings online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding the amenities available and their closeness to public transport, simplifying the process for those relocating from overseas.
As I initiated my quest for a dwelling, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s extensive transport network—including the Underground (often known as the tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation among these zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the central zones, providing greater connectivity. Yet, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the train operator involved. While the prime location of Central London comes with elevated living costs, I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something more difficult to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was yet another important aspect for me. London boasts a variety of supermarkets, including popular chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential stores and pharmacies proved to be invaluable, particularly during hectic exam seasons when every minute counts.
Determining the right neighborhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant mix of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students tend to flock to areas that offer a sense of belonging. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, housing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End bustles with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into the city’s myriad cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on one’s personal preferences and priorities. Whether you are captivated by the city’s cultural diversity, its convenience, or its exciting social environment, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the variety of its housing options, discover its distinctive neighborhoods, and plunge into the allure 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/)*