**Living in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It’s been nine months since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear short, it has granted me substantial insights into this lively and multi-faceted city. London provides not just a broad spectrum of housing choices but also a diverse assortment of communities that render it an exceptional place to reside. For learners, the city boasts plentiful housing options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared living areas, studio flats, and house share arrangements.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is mostly uncomplicated. However, international students can count on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to find possible housing options online. These platforms offer comprehensive information about facilities, accessibility to public transport, and other vital details, facilitating the process for those relocating from overseas.
### Locating a Home
When I commenced my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to significant landmarks, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy travel across these zones.
To cut down on travel costs—since commuting between zones can reach up to £5.25 each day—I chose to walk short distances whenever feasible. For longer journeys, the Oyster card presents budget-friendly travel solutions for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Nevertheless, fares for these services differ depending on the distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers unique advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To better manage costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which considerably decreased our rent. I also decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and ages—a dynamic that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Convenience is Essential
For me, being located near grocery stores was a significant priority. London features a wide range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also prevalent. Being in close proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is highly beneficial, especially during hectic times such as exam seasons.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is undoubtedly challenging due to the city’s extensive and varied nature. London’s ethnic communities contribute prominently to its cultural identity, creating vibrant areas that accommodate diverse tastes and preferences.
For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, boasting Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub teeming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity for international students seeking ties to their homeland.
### Embracing London’s Plurality
Ultimately, the best neighbourhood to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, the practicality of central areas, or the cost-effectiveness of outer zones, London has something tailored for everyone.
As you embark on your search for a home in this extraordinary city, take the time to delve into its varied accommodation options, immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage, and relish the excitement and opportunities that London has in store.
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*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/)*