**Reflecting on Nine Months of Life in London**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience during my stay. London is an energetic and varied metropolis, characterized not only by its living arrangements but also by the multitude of communities that inhabit it. Students, especially, have a plethora of options when it comes to housing. Whether seeking student residences or private lodgings, there’s a wide array available—ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine possible housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the key attractions, social venues, and, of course, the Imperial College campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transportation network is outstanding, with the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains facilitating movement between various zones. Nonetheless, I remained mindful of the expenses associated with inter-zonal travel, which can amount to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. On the upside, the Oyster card system has made commuting to university far more budget-friendly. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail go beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside Central London. The cost of traveling on these services fluctuates based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London provides numerous advantages but also challenges—most notably, the elevated cost of living. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend that would have been more challenging to achieve in private accommodations.
A key consideration for me was being close to grocery shops. The most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities of London are intricately woven into the city’s cultural landscape, creating a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, with an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area bustling with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods that London has to offer.
Ultimately, the ideal area to settle in hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new abode in London, embrace the city’s diversity and rich selection of housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city provides.
—
*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/)