**Living in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it’s been sufficient for me to understand and adjust to life in one of the most vibrant cities globally. London is celebrated not only for its deep-rooted history and culture but also for its varied communities and extensive housing options. Students in the city can choose from a multitude of options, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, studio flats, communal living, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is relatively simple, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate living arrangements online. These platforms offer information on amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other vital details, facilitating better planning ahead.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
When I initiated my search, my aim was to secure a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport system—comprising the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—that allows for easy travel across zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options make commuting more economical for students. For longer treks, services like the London Overground and National Rail go beyond the Underground network, providing access to outer zones. However, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the train operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of being close to iconic sights, although it also means higher living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a acquaintance, which considerably lowered our rent. Furthermore, I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a social environment that’s often more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a crucial element. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of having essential shops, including pharmacies, nearby is especially beneficial during hectic times like exam seasons.
### Delving into London’s Cultural Variety
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that provide a sense of familiarity from their home countries. For example:
– **Southall** in West London has a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is famed for its lively Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These neighbourhoods exemplify how London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in enhancing its rich cultural landscape.
### Identifying Your Space in London
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenient transport options, or its dynamic social atmosphere, London has something to offer everyone. As you embark on your search for a new residence, appreciate the variety of the city’s accommodation choices and relish the unique experiences that come with living in this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)