**Living in London: A Nine-Month Exploration**
*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 an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some insightful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London serves not only as a center of varied housing arrangements but also as a rich tapestry of cultures and communities. For students, the city presents plenty of options, from student accommodation to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite easy. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport options.
### Securing a Place to Stay
When I initiated my search for a residence, my primary focus was to find a room in Central London. Being close to major sights, social centers, and my university campus at Imperial College was a predominant concern. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s robust transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To reduce my travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but using an Oyster card can significantly cut commuting costs. For longer journeys, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, albeit with fares that vary according to distance and train operator.
However, residing in Central London comes with a steep cost. To alleviate expenses, my friend and I opted to share a room, which allowed us to make considerable savings on rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a combination that’s more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### The Necessity of Convenience
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s abundant cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For example:
– **Southall (West London):** Recognized for its extensive South Asian community, Southall features Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These neighborhoods are merely a few instances of London’s cultural hubs, each providing a distinct community feel.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s assorted accommodation choices, its cultural depth, or its practicality, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the process of discovering your new home, delve into the city’s lively neighborhoods, and maximize this extraordinary journey.
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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/)