**Experiencing London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of living in London. Although this timeframe might appear brief, it has been sufficient to gather valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not only famous for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing alternatives, including student accommodations and private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
Home students find it relatively easy to schedule in-person apartment viewings. Meanwhile, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential residences online. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transport, making the journey for those coming from overseas easier.
### Securing a Place to Live
As I initiated my quest for accommodation, my priority was to locate a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy navigation across zones.
To curtail travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options have made it more budget-friendly when commuting to university. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside Central London. However, fares for these services vary depending on distance and individual train operators’ fare structures.
Living in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with increased living expenses. To manage costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that is more challenging to find in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was an essential criterion. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores and pharmacies saves considerable time, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London is a complex decision due to the city’s immense diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, showcasing distinctive neighborhoods that embody an array of traditions and cuisines.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a fraction of the myriad community-oriented neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal location to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its contemporary amenities, London has something to suit everyone. Embrace the variety, explore your choices, and fully experience this extraordinary city.
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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/)*