**Living in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my experience of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it’s been sufficient to uncover meaningful perspectives on life within this dynamic city. London is well-regarded for its variety of housing options and the vibrant cultural diversity of its neighborhoods. Particularly for students, there are numerous accommodations available, from student housing to private rentals. These comprise ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to survey properties online. These websites offer insights on amenities, proximity to public transportation, and other vital information, streamlining the process for newcomers who are relocating from abroad.
### Locating a Home in Central London
As I embarked on my accommodation search, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was crucial to me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb public transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
Nonetheless, commuting expenses can accumulate quickly. For instance, inter-zonal travel fees may reach up to £5.25 daily. To cut expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer trips, an Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option for university commutes. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structures set by various train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To manage costs, I chose to share a room with a fellow student. This decision substantially lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that’s less common in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Key supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during busy times like exam seasons.
### Selecting the Right Area
Deciding on a neighborhood in London can be quite overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, creating numerous unique neighborhoods to explore. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that offer a sense of familiarity and connection to their home countries.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub brimming with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural events.
These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural wealth that London has to offer.
### Conclusion
The most suitable area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodations, its cultural neighborhoods, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to cater to everyone. My time here has been a remarkable experience, and I urge anyone relocating to London to embrace its diversity and fully enjoy this extraordinary city.
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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/)