**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Having relocated to London nine months ago, I’ve come to realize that this period, although seemingly brief, has imparted several significant lessons about living in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and communities alongside a plethora of housing choices, making it an enticing destination, especially for students. Whether you seek ensuite or shared facilities, private rooms, studio apartments, or house shares, there’s an accommodation type to suit everyone’s needs.
For domestic students, arranging physical viewings of apartments is generally uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties virtually, evaluate amenities, and determine accessibility to public transport links.
### Securing a Home Base
As I embarked on my accommodation journey, my primary goal was to find a room in Central London. Residing in the heart of the city allowed easy access to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core of the city. Thanks to the city’s superb public transportation network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—traveling across zones is relatively seamless.
Nevertheless, crossing between zones can incur substantial costs, with daily travel fees soaring to £5.25. To mitigate expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For longer journeys, using oyster cards provided a more economical travel solution, rendering university commutes less burdensome. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground’s boundaries, encompassing regions outside central London. Travel costs on these services vary based on distance and the fare agreements of the operating companies.
Opting to live in Central London entails a significant financial commitment; however, I was lucky enough to share a room with a friend, which greatly alleviated our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student housing with the intention of connecting with peers from assorted backgrounds and similar age brackets—a demographic often harder to secure in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
Having nearby grocery stores was crucial for me. The most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated close to essential outlets, particularly during exam periods, greatly facilitates errand-running. Nearby pharmacies and convenience stores further enhance everyday life.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a suitable neighbourhood in London can be quite a daunting task. The city’s various ethnic communities contribute considerably to its cultural diversity, offering a range of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to settle in locations that resonate with the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is admired for its rich Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the vibrant heart of the West End offers an energetic vibe with its Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a snapshot of the rich community enclaves that define London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal living arrangement in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you find yourself attracted to the city’s cultural zones, its diverse housing selections, or its convenience and vibrancy, London indeed possesses something for everyone. Embrace the variety, venture into the neighbourhoods, and capitalize on the opportunities this incredible city provides.
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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/)*