**Living in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has afforded me the chance to gather significant observations about this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing opportunities but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation options, from student housing to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
Local students find it relatively easy to schedule apartment viewings. However, international students can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to survey potential living arrangements online. These resources provide information about amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other vital details, simplifying the process for newcomers.
### Securing a Place to Live
During my accommodation hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transportation system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
To cut down on transport expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, but discounted travel options like Oyster cards have made commuting cheaper for students. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube’s reach, enhancing connectivity. However, ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London offers advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations as they provided a chance to meet diverse peers of similar ages—something less achievable with private rentals.
### Convenience of Essentials
One of my primary concerns was being near grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op can be found nearby, while budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores and pharmacies in close proximity is incredibly advantageous, especially during hectic times like exam seasons.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, providing an array of vibrant districts. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their home cultures.
For example, Southall in West London is a center for the South Asian community, adorned with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean cultural influence and vibrant music scene. Likewise, Chinatown in the West End boasts a lively environment filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods symbolize just a fraction of the cultural diversity London showcases.
### Celebrating London’s Variety
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or exploring the city, London’s diversity, cultural neighborhoods, and housing choices truly make it an extraordinary place to live.
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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/)*