**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure in London. While this timeframe might seem brief, it has been sufficient to uncover valuable lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its wide range of housing options but also for the rich cultural fabric created by its various communities. Students have plentiful choices, from university housing to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, while international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces remotely. These sites include information about facilities and access to public transport, streamlining the search for newcomers from abroad.
### Searching for a Home
As I initiated my accommodation hunt, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and my university at Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two at the heart. The robust public transportation system—including the Underground (or “tube”), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
That said, traveling between different zones can rack up costs, with daily fares hitting as much as £5.25. To cut down on commuting expenses, I opted for walking short distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer trips, I discovered that Oyster card options helped to lower travel costs considerably. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, linking to areas outside Central London. However, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the provider.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with a high price tag. To manage expenses, I opted to share accommodation with a friend who was also studying. This decision allowed us to save notably on rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, which enabled me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—something that can be more difficult with private rentals.
### Importance of Location
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to budget-conscious students. Proximity to necessary stores, including pharmacies, proved crucial, especially during exam periods when time is limited.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be complex, as the city hosts a plethora of ethnic communities, each adding to its cultural richness. A number of international students tend to prefer areas that resemble the familiarity of their home lands.
For example, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese eateries, markets, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods are just a few of the cultural pockets that make London distinctive.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its culturally rich neighbourhoods, or the ease of its public transport, London caters to all. My recommendation? Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its vibrant cultural landscape, and seize the excitement and possibilities this remarkable metropolis presents.
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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/)*