**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While this timeframe might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to acquire several invaluable insights about life in this dynamic and multicultural metropolis. London is renowned not only for its wide variety of housing choices but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city brims with options ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. Nevertheless, international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse for properties online, evaluate amenities, and determine the distance to public transport.
### Securing a Place to Live
When I initiated my accommodation search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was crucial. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s outstanding public transportation system—which includes the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation, as traveling between zones can add up to £5.25 each day. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides a more budget-friendly travel option. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground network to cover regions outside the city center. However, fares for these services can vary based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also means facing higher living expenses. To address costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also attending university. This choice significantly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, which allowed for interaction with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that is often challenging to find in private rentals.
### The Advantage of Location
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those looking to economize. Proximity to vital stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Cultural Diversity
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, as the city’s ethnic groups greatly enrich its cultural variety. Many international students are drawn to areas that provide a sense of familiarity.
– **Southall** in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighbourhoods are merely a few of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s distinct identity.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are on the lookout for a new home or merely discovering the city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation opportunities. Take the time to explore its cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.
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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/)*