**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be an extended period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather meaningful observations about life in this lively city. London is celebrated not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its active and diverse communities. Students, in particular, are presented with numerous housing possibilities from student residences to private living arrangements. Options vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to both private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is typically simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential homes online, check amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport options.
As I initiated my search for accommodation, securing a room in Central London was my top priority. Proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College were significant considerations for me. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s comprehensive transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation throughout the zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, with daily fares potentially reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transportation. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides cost-effective travel solutions for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, servicing areas outside the central zone. Prices for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure set by the operating company.
Residing in Central London offers certain advantages, yet it also entails increased living costs. To alleviate expenditures, I shared a room with a friend, effectively halving our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s more challenging with private rentals.
Another key consideration for me was proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, proved to be crucial, particularly during exams when time is limited.
Choosing the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task due to the city’s immense variety. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a colorful array of neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students find themselves gravitating toward areas that evoke the familiarity of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End offers a bustling hub of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of London’s multicultural allure.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or merely exploring the city, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of 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/)*