**Living in London: My Journey After Nine Months**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

A few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark of my residency in London. Although nine months might appear brief, I have gained substantial insights about this dynamic city during my time here. London’s diversity is evident not only in its housing options but also in the various communities that inhabit it. Students, in particular, enjoy a multitude of accommodation choices available to them. Whether opting for student housing or private rentals, the options are extensive, ranging from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential homes online, assess the amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.

Throughout my search for housing, my priority was finding a room in Central London. I desired closeness to the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and, naturally, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. The city is equipped with a superb transport system that includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zonal travel quite simple. To cut down on travel expenses—considering inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day—I decided to walk for shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. However, the Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. The ticket prices for these services depend on the distance covered and the specific fare structures of each train operator.

Residing in Central London offers numerous benefits, yet it also entails higher living expenses due to the proximity to popular attractions. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as I aimed to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that may be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.

For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. The most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.

Selecting the right neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students look for areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional garments. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a sample of the many diverse communities that thrive in London.

In the end, the ideal neighborhood to reside in London will depend on your personal interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a home in this city, take the opportunity to appreciate the diversity of its accommodation choices, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement London has in store.

*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/)

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