**Living in London: A Journey of Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may seem like a brief period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain valuable knowledge about existence in this lively city. London is not only famous for its varied housing options but also for the diverse array of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents numerous accommodation possibilities, including student housing and private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is simple. On the other hand, international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for virtual accommodation exploration. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, proximity to public transportation, and other crucial information.
### Finding a Place to Reside
When I initiated my quest for a place to live, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. The outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel among these zones.
However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs escalating up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides more cost-effective travel solutions for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure set by each train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To manage costs, a friend and I opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental payments. I decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
### Proximity to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a vital consideration. London boasts a multitude of supermarket chains, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy times, such as exam weeks, when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Perfect Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood can present difficulties, given the expansiveness and diversity of London. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting an eclectic mix of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with the culture and familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its dynamic South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music environment. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of the many cultural neighborhoods that contribute to London’s unique character.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are drawn to the city’s cultural richness, its convenient transport options, or its lively social atmosphere, London has something special to offer every individual. Embrace the diverse accommodation choices, explore the city’s vibrant cultural neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
—
*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/)*