**Experiencing Life in London: A Nine-Month Review**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to acquire valuable perspectives on life within this lively metropolis. London isn’t just celebrated for its renowned landmarks but also for its multicultural neighborhoods and a variety of housing choices. Whether you are a student or a professional, the city caters to everyone, offering options from student accommodations to private residences, including ensuite rooms, shared living, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential homes online. These platforms provide comprehensive details regarding amenities, accessibility to public transit, and other necessities, significantly streamlining the search experience.
### Locating a Place to Call Your Own
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I emphasized living in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement among these zones. However, commuting expenses can accumulate quickly, particularly for inter-zonal travel, which can reach up to £5.25 per day.
To minimize transport costs, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying solely on public transport. For more extended journeys, the Oyster card has proven invaluable, providing discounted rates for students. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, linking outlying zones with the city center. Nevertheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers certain advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. To manage my financial outlay, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they presented a distinctive opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was an essential requirement. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those aiming to economize. Proximity to vital stores, including pharmacies, is particularly beneficial during hectic periods like exam season, conserving both time and energy.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the appropriate neighborhood in London can be a formidable challenge, considering the city’s rich cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its character, providing an array of cultural experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End delivers an immersive experience with its Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London is determined by your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural depth, convenience, or vibrant social life, London caters to various preferences. As you hunt for a new residence, take the opportunity to explore the diverse housing options and dive into the lively neighborhoods the city has to offer. Living in London is a journey, and every aspect of this extraordinary city has a narrative waiting to be discovered.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)