**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to gather significant lessons about life in this dynamic city. London showcases not only a rich tapestry of cultural communities but also a plethora of accommodation choices, catering to all needs. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city offers diverse living options, ranging from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio apartments and shared houses.
For students, both university-operated housing and private rentals offer a multitude of choices. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person visits, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse available accommodations online. These platforms enable you to evaluate amenities, distance to public transport, and other factors prior to making a choice.
### Securing My Residence in Central London
As I initiated my quest for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, lively social spots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, trips between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transit. For longer journeys, I discovered that utilizing an Oyster card greatly lowered my travel costs. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground system, providing choices for those living further away.
Living in Central London comes with advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I chose to share a room with a friend, enabling us to significantly reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, which allowed me to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often more challenging with private rentals.
### Importance of Location
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent options. Being situated close to essential stores and pharmacies proved invaluable, especially during exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood to reside in is quite a challenging endeavor. London’s cultural richness is showcased through its diverse ethnic communities, each delivering a distinct experience. Many international students tend to settle in areas that evoke a sense of home.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London stands out for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a few illustrations of the cultural pockets that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London depends on individual preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize closeness to your university, cultural connections, or cost-effectiveness, London accommodates all tastes.
Looking back on my experience here, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of London’s housing options and neighbourhoods. From discovering cultural enclaves to relishing the benefits of urban living, London is undeniably a remarkable city to call home.
—
*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/)*