**Living in London: Nine Months of Learnings**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
About nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to absorb a wealth of knowledge about this lively city. London is a cultural hub, presenting not only a variety of living arrangements but also dynamic communities that contribute to its distinctive charm. For students, the city offers plentiful housing options, from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate prospective accommodations online. These sites furnish comprehensive details about amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other vital information, facilitating the process for newcomers.
### Sourcing a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my housing hunt, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive transport network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—making movement between zones quite convenient. However, travel expenses can accumulate, particularly for cross-zone commutes, which may reach £5.25 per day.
To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transport. For lengthier journeys, I used an Oyster card, which considerably cuts travel costs for students. Beyond the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside central London, though fares for these services can fluctuate based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, such as closeness to famous landmarks, but it also brings higher living expenses. To keep costs down, I made the choice to share a room with a friend, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. Additionally, I opted to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations as I wanted to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private rentals might not provide.
### The Significance of Convenience
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. London has a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly handy, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Discovering London’s Vibrant Communities
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be an overwhelming task due to its vastness and diversity. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, creating a rich mix of neighbourhoods that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is an energetic enclave packed with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of the vibrant community centers that enrich London’s character.
### Locating Your Ideal Spot
In the end, the best area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural pockets or its central landmarks, London’s housing choices are as varied as its inhabitants. Embrace the city’s rich diversity, explore its distinctive neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that accompany living in one of the globe’s most extraordinary cities.
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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/)*