**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, it has afforded me the opportunity to learn several important lessons about adapting to life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its wide array of housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides an abundance of living arrangements, from student residences to private leases, featuring choices such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings for apartments is fairly simple. However, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transport, streamlining the planning process.
### Securing the Ideal Living Space
When I initiated my hunt for a place to reside, my goal was to find a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement around. Yet, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport.
For longer travels, the Oyster card provides discounted fare options for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, including regions outside central London. Fees for these services depend on distance and the specific train provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with elevated living costs. To mitigate expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something less common in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Being close to vital stores, like supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time and energy, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be an overwhelming endeavor, considering the city’s diversity. London’s cultural communities play a crucial role in its identity, offering distinctive neighbourhoods that cater to various preferences and tastes.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
These neighbourhoods provide a sense of connection for international students looking to maintain ties to their home cultures while living abroad.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the best locality to live in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its central highlights, London presents a myriad of accommodation choices suitable for every lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, delve into the richness of its neighbourhoods, and relish in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.
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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/)*