**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, it has given me enough time to collect some meaningful observations about this dynamic city. London is not only a center of varied housing options but also a convergence point for communities from all over the world. For students, the city presents a myriad of accommodation choices, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential housing online. These sites offer information about amenities and proximity to public transportation, simplifying the search process.
### Locating a Home
As I began my quest, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and my university at Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card became a budget-friendly solution. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones with differing fare structures based on distance and train service provider.
The significant cost of living in Central London is a widely recognized hurdle, but I discovered a way to substantially reduce expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, which created a special opportunity to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Close to Essentials
Having grocery stores nearby was a crucial factor for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students wanting to economize on groceries. Being situated near essential shops, including pharmacies, saves a tremendous amount of time, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, considering the city’s vast cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities contribute to its allure, providing a spectrum of lively neighborhoods. For many international students, these areas impart a sense of familiarity and warmth.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean vibe and energetic music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, presents a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These neighborhoods are just a handful of examples showcasing the cultural wealth that London possesses.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you find yourself captivated by the city’s range of housing options, its cultural hotspots, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to cater to everyone.
For those embarking on the quest to find a home in this extraordinary city, embrace its diversity, explore its lively communities, and take full advantage of the opportunities it provides.
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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/)*