**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insights on Housing and Life**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to acquire several important lessons about existence in this dynamic city. London is famed not only for its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also for the diverse fabric of communities that inhabit it. As a student, I have encountered various housing choices, from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring everything from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively easy. Meanwhile, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodation options online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and distance to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Securing a Place to Reside
When I started my hunt, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. Being close to significant landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s robust transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily costs potentially reaching £5.25. To minimize travel expenses, I frequently walked shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card became invaluable, providing discounted fares for students.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services link regions outside the central zones. These services feature fluctuating prices based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator. Although residing in Central London provides unmatched convenience, it comes with a steep price. To help mitigate expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Furthermore, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges— a social aspect that private rentals often lack.
### Location Near Essentials
Proximity to grocery stores was another critical element for me. London has numerous supermarkets, with well-known options including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For budget-minded students, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, saves time on errands—a vital benefit during intense exam periods.
### Picking the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial part of its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich spectrum of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that echo the comfort of their home countries. For example:
– **Southall** in West London showcases a lively South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighbourhoods are just a sampling of the cultural richness that distinguishes London.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the most suitable area to live in London depends on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural quarters, its practicality, or its lively atmosphere, London provides something for everyone. As I continue my exploration here, I have grown to appreciate the variety and richness of the city’s housing options and communities. Living in London is an experience—one that is as thrilling as it is fulfilling.
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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/)*