**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient to accumulate insightful experiences about this dynamic city. London serves not only as a center of varied living arrangements but also as a crossroads of cultures from around the globe. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, including student housing and private rentals. Choices consist of ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider access to public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social scenes, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones formulating the city’s heart. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy navigation between zones. However, travelling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, leading me to choose to walk shorter distances to conserve on travel costs. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides affordable options for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Travel fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing frame of the operating company.
Living in Central London offers numerous advantages but also steep living costs. To manage my finances, I opted to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rent expenses. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being in close proximity to grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively available, while economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near these stores and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during busy times such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be tricky, given the rich cultural diversity of the city. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its character, presenting vibrant neighborhoods that showcase their traditions. For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, filled with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area packed with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a sense of familiarity for international students wishing to link back to their heritage.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual choices and priorities. Whether it’s being close to your university, cultural resonance, or affordability, the city has something for everyone. Embrace the variety of London’s housing opportunities, explore its cultural pockets, and absorb the unique vibe of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)