**Living in London: A Nine-Month Learning Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months prior, I began my adventure living in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, it has provided me with ample insights into this lively and diverse metropolis. London is famed not only for its numerous housing possibilities but also for the vibrant cultural communities that reside here. Students can choose from a myriad of options, ranging from student accommodations to private lodgings, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is uncomplicated, whereas international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to seek out potential housing online. These websites offer information about facilities and proximity to public transport, simplifying the search considerably.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
As I embarked on my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus was vital. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the top two being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation network—including the Underground (popularly known as the Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy travel between zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For instance, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often opted to stroll short distances rather than taking public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has rendered university commuting more cost-effective. For those venturing beyond the central zones, the London Overground and National Rail services expand the transport network, though fares can differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also heightens living expenses. To manage costs, my friend and I chose to share a room, which significantly diminished our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—a blend that is trickier to discover in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Being near grocery stores was crucial for me. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Having essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies close at hand is exceptionally convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting a Neighborhood
Choosing the right neighborhood in London is a challenging yet exhilarating task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural essence, presenting a variety of distinctive neighborhoods to explore. Many international students gravitate toward areas that resonate with their homeland familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London presents a diverse range of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify the city’s rich cultural landscape.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re sifting through the city’s varied housing selections, immersing yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, or relishing the convenience of its top-tier public transport system, London offers something for everyone.
My time in this extraordinary city has been an enriching journey, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what London holds in store.
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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/)