**Living in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated reaching the nine-month mark of my time in London. Although nine months may appear brief, it has been ample time for me to discover much about this dynamic city. London boasts not only a variety of housing options but also an array of communities. Students here have ample choices regarding accommodation. Whether you seek ensuite or shared bathrooms, private or shared rooms, studio flats, or house shares, there is something available for everyone.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine options virtually. These websites offer comprehensive details concerning amenities, accessibility to public transport, and additional necessities, streamlining the search experience.
### Discovering the Ideal Place to Reside
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. My aim was to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six surrounding zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across these zones.
Nonetheless, transportation expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. On the positive side, the Oyster card system has made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Besides the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones, although fares vary based on distance and train provider.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages but also comes with elevated living costs. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to achieve with private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most frequent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Being proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times such as exam season.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be challenging. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural character, presenting a rich mix of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students gravitate toward locations that evoke memories of home.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London is recognized for its large South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets.
– **Brixton**, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that set London apart.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and needs. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural richness, convenient transport links, or energetic social atmosphere, London offers something for everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new home, take time to explore the city’s diverse tapestry of accommodation options and neighbourhoods. Embrace the diversity and relish the thrill of living in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.
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*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/)*