**Experiencing London: A Nine-Month Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this lively and varied metropolis. London is recognized not just for its rich heritage and culture, but also for its diverse housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a wealth of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
International students can particularly benefit from resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which are useful for browsing potential housing online, examining features, and evaluating closeness to public transport. On the other hand, home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings.
### Securing Accommodation
As I initiated my quest for housing, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies traveling between zones. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, with inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25 daily.
To reduce transportation costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than using the tube or bus. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fare options, making it a budget-friendly choice for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. However, prices for these services vary depending on the distance traveled and the operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also brings high living expenses. To economize, a friend and I opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a social aspect often absent in private rentals.
### Importance of Location
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students aiming to pinch pennies. Proximity to vital stores and pharmacies was especially crucial during exam periods when every moment counts.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s magnitude and variety. London’s ethnic communities form a fundamental part of its cultural fabric, showcasing vibrant and distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End provides a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods are just a selection of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s dynamic and welcoming atmosphere.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether your priority is nearby access to your university, cost-effectiveness, or cultural resonance, London presents opportunities for everyone. Embrace the city’s myriad accommodation choices, delve into its vibrant neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the allure of this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)*