**Experiencing Life in London: A Student’s Insight**
*Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated the milestone of living in London for nine months. Although this time frame may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, notable not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for the rich tapestry of its communities. Students in this city have an abundance of choices regarding housing. Options ranging from student residences to private living spaces include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and room shares. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is generally easy, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, examine available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. My goal was to be in close proximity to the city’s key attractions, lively social spots, and of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel across zones. Nonetheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 a day. To reduce spending, I often chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. That being said, an Oyster card can greatly decrease commuting expenses for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail go beyond the Tube system, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for these services differ based on distance and the individual fare policies of train operators.
Residing in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to significant attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which helped us considerably cut down on rent expenses. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I sought to meet fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that might be less prevalent in private rentals.
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Some of the most prominent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood to reside in can be quite daunting. The ethnic communities of London contribute richly to the cultural fabric of the city, presenting a vibrant selection of neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring an abundance of Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, located in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Additionally, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a thriving hub packed with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples among the various community-centric neighbourhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal living area in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new residence in this city, take a moment to appreciate the variety and richness of London’s housing choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this remarkable city has in store.
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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/)*