**Nine Months in London: A Student’s View on Housing and Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to gather significant perspectives on life in this lively city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for its prosperous and varied communities. The city presents students with a wide array of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually investigate potential accommodations, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport connections.
### Locating the Ideal Place to Reside
When I initiated my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, entertainment districts, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s excellent transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I made the choice to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transportation. Inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, but using the Oyster card has greatly lowered commuting costs for students. For lengthier trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, although ticket prices vary depending on distance and the train operator involved.
Residing in Central London offers benefits yet comes with high living expenses. To handle costs, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating meeting classmates from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a diversity that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near supermarkets was crucial. Some of the most prevalent grocery chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also broadly accessible. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is a substantial time-saver, especially during exam seasons when every moment is valuable.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, offering a rich blend of neighborhoods. Numerous international students lean towards areas that evoke a sense of home.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a busy enclave brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These areas exemplify the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s distinction.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living location in London ultimately relies on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether your focus is on being close to your university, cultural connections, or budgeting, London caters to everyone’s needs. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its vibrant cultural neighborhoods, and capitalize on the ease and thrill this extraordinary city presents.
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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/)*