**Nine Months in London: Insights on Housing and Urban Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not appear as an extensive duration, it has been ample time for me to gather important perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich blend of cultures that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student housing to private leases. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings is a breeze, but international students can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations remotely. These resources offer detailed insights regarding amenities and proximity to public transit, simplifying the transition for those coming from overseas.
### Locating a Home
In my quest, I prioritized finding a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social spots, and, above all, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. The city’s outstanding public transportation—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these areas.
To cut down on travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 per day for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, rendering it a budget-friendly choice for students. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network into outer zones. Nevertheless, fares for these services can differ based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of being close to major landmarks, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I decided to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a scenario that’s often rare in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
Being near grocery stores was crucial for me. Popular chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while cost-effective choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in close proximity to essential stores and pharmacies conserves valuable time, especially during exams when every second matters.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing an area in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural essence, showcasing a variety of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that reflect elements of their home culture.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End presents a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods merely hint at the cultural richness that London presents.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London will hinge on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are on the hunt for a new dwelling or adapting to student life, London’s broad accommodation choices, cultural neighborhoods, and effective transport system render it an exhilarating and vibrant city to make your home.
As I proceed with my journey here, I have grown to appreciate the depth of London’s communities and the ease of its urban lifestyle. For anyone contemplating a move to this extraordinary city, my straightforward advice is: embrace its diversity, discover its neighborhoods, and seize the opportunities it provides.
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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/)*