**Living in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Though it may not seem like an extensive duration, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this lively and multicultural city. London is more than just a center for cultural and social engagement; it also presents a plethora of housing options for both students and residents. There are various choices available, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For those coming from abroad, platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom serve as essential tools for locating suitable housing. These sites enable you to browse listings digitally, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport. In contrast, local students often benefit from the ability to schedule in-person viewings.
### Securing Accommodation
As I initiated my search, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social scenes, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superior transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these areas.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For lengthy commutes, the Oyster card has been indispensable, providing reduced fares for students. Besides the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond Central London, although prices vary based on distance traveled and the train service used.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails increased living expenses. To help with costs, I shared a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, which allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an atmosphere that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students wanting to economize. Being near important stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic periods such as exam time.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming, considering the city’s scale and diversity. The ethnic communities in London are a key component of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward locations that mirror the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its prominent South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling atmosphere filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify the city’s multicultural allure.
### Adopting London Life
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize closeness to your university, cultural interactions, or affordability, the city boasts a vast array of choices. My recommendation for anyone on the hunt for accommodation in London is to embrace its diversity, explore its distinctive neighborhoods, and maximize the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city presents.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*