**Experiencing Life in London: Insights Gained from Nine Months in the City**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Although this period may not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant and diverse communities. For students, the city presents a multitude of options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is relatively simple. However, international students can make use of websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to research properties online, review amenities, and evaluate the accessibility to public transport.
### Locating a Place to Settle Down
When I initiated my accommodation search, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation network, including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—since moving between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily—I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, making it a budget-friendly solution for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, though prices vary based on distance and the pricing policy of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs down, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, allowing me to connect with fellow students from different backgrounds and similar ages—a challenge with private rentals.
### Importance of Proximity to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the major supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having easy access to key shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s scale and variety. The ethnic communities in London are a crucial component of its cultural fabric, providing numerous unique neighbourhoods. Many international students find themselves drawn to areas resembling the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, hosting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional clothing. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean roots and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively mix of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods represent just a glimpse of the diverse cultural hubs that London holds.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London is contingent on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural richness, its practicality, or its lively social atmosphere, London offers something for everyone. My recommendation for those hunting for a home in the city is to celebrate its diversity, delve into its cultural neighbourhoods, and seize the exhilarating opportunities available.
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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/)*