**Experiencing London: Reflections from Nine Months in the Capital**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this lively and varied metropolis. London is renowned not just for its famous sights but also for its extensive range of housing choices and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, from student accommodations to private living spaces, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is quite easy, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online. These sites offer information about features and proximity to public transportation, streamlining the search process.
### Searching for Accommodation in London
As I started my hunt for a place to live, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Being near major points of interest, social centers, and my university at Imperial College was essential. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, although ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails greater living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging in private lodgings.
### Accessibility to Essentials
One of my primary concerns was residing near supermarkets. Some of the most frequently found grocery stores in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely available. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic periods like exam weeks.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing an area in London is a complex task, as the city’s ethnic communities contribute a distinctive allure to its cultural environment. Many international students tend to settle in neighborhoods that evoke familiarity with their home countries.
For example:
– **Southall**, situated in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area full of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods are merely a few representations of the rich cultural diversity that London boasts.
### Embracing Life in London
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 abode or acclimating to a neighborhood, London’s diversity, cultural enclaves, and comprehensive housing options create a thrilling living experience. Embrace the city’s vibrancy, discover its unique communities, and relish the convenience and opportunities it provides.
—
*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/)*