### My Nine Month Experience in London: Observations on Housing and Urban Living
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly allowed me to acquire significant insights into the lifestyle of this lively and multicultural city. London is renowned not only for its rich cultural heritage and history, but also for the variety of housing choices and the energetic neighborhoods that inhabit it. Students are presented with a plethora of options, spanning from student accommodation to private rentals, including choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For those coming from abroad, websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom serve as invaluable resources for investigating housing possibilities online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, closeness to public transportation, and even virtual tours, simplifying the journey of finding a place to live. In contrast, domestic students frequently benefit from the chance to schedule in-person viewings.
### Securing a Place to Reside
As I initiated my quest for lodging, my focus was on discovering a room in Central London. It was essential for me to be near significant attractions, bustling social spots, and my university campus at Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts a remarkable transportation network, which consists of the Underground (affectionately known as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between these zones.
Nevertheless, transportation expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, travelling between zones may cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a financially sensible choice. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube system, reaching areas outside the city center. Prices for these services vary based on distance and each train provider’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails steep living costs. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This significantly lessened our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation due to the opportunity it provided to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that could be more challenging in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
A critical factor that influenced my living arrangements was proximity to grocery stores. London boasts numerous supermarket chains, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For budget-conscious shoppers, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are favored options. Living within close reach of essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exam weeks.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Deciding on the ideal neighborhood to inhabit in London can be a daunting task. The city’s diverse communities significantly contribute to its cultural richness, forming a vibrant tapestry of distinctive areas. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that provide a sense of comfort and connection to their cultural roots.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a handful of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s unique character.
### Concluding Remarks
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural variety, its convenience, or its energetic social environment, London offers something for everyone. As you navigate your search for a new residence, take time to explore the array of accommodation choices and delve into the richness of its communities. Living in London is an exhilarating and fulfilling experience, and I cherish the lessons I’ve gained throughout my time here.
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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/)*