**Living in London: Perspectives from Nine Months in the City**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not sound like a lengthy period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to glean some important insights about life in this lively and multifaceted city. London is celebrated not only for its abundant history and culture but also for its diverse housing options and flourishing communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there is something available for everyone in the city.
### Locating Accommodation in London
For students, London presents a plethora of housing choices, from student accommodations to private rentals. Options include ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can make use of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These websites deliver comprehensive details about amenities, transport links, and other vital information.
When I began my quest, I was eager to find a room in Central London to stay in close proximity to major sights, social hotspots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system, featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel among these zones. However, traveling between zones can be costly, with daily expenses reaching up to £5.25. To mitigate travel costs, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transportation. For longer journeys, an Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option.
For those venturing beyond the central zones, the London Overground and National Rail services broaden the transportation network. However, ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the pricing structures of train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rental burden. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a connection that is often harder to establish with private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
A major priority for me was living near grocery stores. London boasts a wide selection of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to essential stores and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during hectic periods such as exam weeks.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be an overwhelming task due to the city’s enormity and diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of experiences. Many international students find themselves drawn to areas that evoke a sense of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian cuisine, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the centre of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods merely scratch the surface of the cultural richness London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The best neighbourhood to call home in London ultimately relies on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether it’s being near your university, cultural familiarity, or access to essential services, London has something to cater to everyone’s needs. Embrace the city’s diversity, uncover its distinctive neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement it has to provide.
London is a city unlike any other, and my time living here has been an unforgettable journey. From navigating its housing landscape to engaging with its cultural enclaves, each moment has served as a valuable learning experience.
*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/)*