**Living in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a significant duration, it has provided me with valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied living arrangements but also for the diverse array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents numerous housing options, from student lodgings to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For home students, arranging apartment viewings is easy, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport links.
As I initiated my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city features a superb transportation system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones efficient. However, inter-zonal journey costs can reach as high as £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances for savings on transport expenses. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides cost-effective travel options for students. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, giving access to outer zones. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator involved.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but comes with elevated living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent burden. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a social experience that might not have been available with private rentals.
Another important consideration for me was proximity to grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic periods like exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, providing an array of lively neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that remind them of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is populated by a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean cultural influence and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural wealth London has to offer.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re delving into the city’s diverse housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural hubs, or enjoying the convenience of its transport facilities, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, absorb the vibrancy, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary city.
*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/)*