**Experiencing Life in London: Insights from My Nine Months in the City**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I embarked on my adventure in London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, it has provided me with profound understanding of existence in this vibrant city. London thrives on its diversity—not only in its cultural communities but also in its range of housing alternatives. For students, options are plentiful, including student accommodation and private living spaces. These choices comprise ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is simple. In contrast, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for housing digitally, evaluate amenities, and review distances to public transport.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my hunt for a room, I concentrated on Central London. Being in proximity to prominent landmarks, social centers, and, above all, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares reaching as high as £5.25.
To reduce travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card has proven to be a budget-friendly choice for students. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the central zones, although fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing of the train operators.
Living centrally in London, however, comes with a significant cost. To mitigate expenses, I elected to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that private housing might not facilitate as readily.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently located, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland suit students striving to save money. Being close to essential shops, including pharmacies, is a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is no straightforward feat. The city’s diverse cultural makeup comprises numerous ethnic communities, each providing an extraordinary experience. Many international students tend to gravitate toward regions that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For example:
– **Southall** in West London is a center for the South Asian community, showcasing Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few instances of the cultural neighborhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the ideal residence in London hinges on your personal requirements and preferences. Whether you’re delving into the city’s diverse accommodation options, immersing yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, or simply relishing the convenience of its exceptional transport system, London has something for everyone.
For those setting out on their own housing quest in this extraordinary city, I urge you to embrace its diversity, discover its vibrant communities, and seize the opportunities it presents.
—
*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/)*