**Experiencing Life in London: Insights from a Student**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might appear to be a short duration, it has provided me with the opportunity to discover valuable insights about living in this bustling city. London is famous not just for its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation possibilities, spanning from student housing to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Home students find it quite simple to schedule an apartment viewing, while international students can utilize services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations from the comfort of their computers. These platforms offer information about amenities, transport connections, and other crucial details, simplifying the search process.
### Searching for a Home Base
At the onset of my search, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I wanted to be close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commutes between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depending on public transport. Inter-zonal transport can be as much as £5.25 daily, but using an Oyster card substantially lowers commuting costs for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the city center. However, fares for these services vary based on distance and each operator’s pricing policies.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also hefty living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, allowing us considerable savings on rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is less common in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, particularly during exam season when every moment matters.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror the familiarity of their native lands.
– **Southall** in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the middle of London’s West End, offers a bustling hub of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
These are but a handful of the culturally vibrant neighbourhoods that distinguish London.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you feel attracted to the city’s cultural hotspots, its varied accommodation choices, or its accessible transport options, London caters to every taste. My recommendation? Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its lively neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the remarkable opportunities this extraordinary metropolis 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/)*