**Experiencing Accommodation and Life in London: A Personal Journey**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to gain some invaluable insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London showcases a remarkable diversity not just in accommodation but also in its communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, a plethora of housing options awaits you. Choices range from student residences to private leases, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, while international students may benefit from sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover living arrangements online, evaluate amenities, and determine their closeness to public transport.

In my own accommodation search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to stay near the city’s main attractions, lively areas, and, naturally, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s public transportation system—comprising the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, I was determined to minimize my travel expenses, as crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I opted for walking shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the Tube. Nonetheless, the Oyster card has rendered commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, with fares varying based on distance and operator.

Residing in Central London presents advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses due to its closeness to prominent attractions. Fortunately, I managed to share a room with a friend, leading to a notable reduction in our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience more challenging to find in private housing.

A key focus for me was living near supermarkets. Popular grocery store chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while low-budget alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies significantly conserves time, especially when navigating exams and other obligations.

Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities contribute immensely to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of distinct neighbourhoods. Many international students find comfort in these communities, reminiscent of their home cultures. For example, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. In London’s West End, Chinatown provides an assortment of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These exemplify just a fraction of the cultural enclaves that render London such an exceptional place to inhabit.

In conclusion, determining the best area to reside in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for accommodation in this city, take pride in the diversity and richness of available housing options, delve into the cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that London has to offer.

*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/)

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