**Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. While it might not appear as a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to impart a few essential lessons regarding life in this dynamic and diverse metropolis. London is celebrated not just for its famous landmarks but also for its extensive selection of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation choices, ranging from student housing to private rentals, such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is generally simple. On the other hand, international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore properties online, check available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport access. These resources are invaluable for organizing and locking down a place to reside prior to entering the city.
### Finding a Place to Live
When I started my accommodation search, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Residing in the city’s core afforded proximity to major sights, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel across these zones.
Nonetheless, transportation expenses can escalate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel may cost up to £5.25 daily. To conserve funds, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides reduced travel fares, making it a budget-friendly option for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although fares depend on distance and the train operator.
Living in Central London offers advantages but also entails high living expenses. To tackle costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which dramatically lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
### Proximity to Essentials
For me, being near grocery outlets was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide economical alternatives. Proximity to vital stores, including pharmacies, saves time and energy, especially during demanding times like exam periods.
### Choosing the Right Neighbourhood
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expanse and diversity. London’s ethnic communities contribute to its cultural depth, creating distinct neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.
For instance, Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively area of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide a sense of familiarity and community for international students seeking connections to their heritage.
### Embracing London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. Whether you value closeness to your university, cultural zones, or budget-friendly options, London has something for every individual. My recommendation to anyone searching for accommodation in this metropolis is to embrace its diversity, delve into its rich cultural fabric, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement it brings.
Living in London has thus far been an extraordinary journey, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more about this remarkable city as the months progress.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*