**Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to impart a few essential lessons about life in this lively and multicultural metropolis. London serves not only as a center for cultural and social engagement but also provides a variety of housing options catering to its residents, including students.
The city offers a plethora of housing alternatives for students, such as student accommodations and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared facilities to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange physical viewings, while international students can depend on resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for properties online. These platforms additionally offer details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, enhancing the convenience of the search process.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London consists of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transit system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating relatively easy commutes between zones. However, traveling across zones can be expensive, with daily costs amounting to as much as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card has been invaluable, dramatically decreasing travel expenses.
Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones. Prices for these services differ based on the distance and the respective company’s fare structure. Nevertheless, residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails high living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, resulting in significant savings on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, which allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience less likely with private rentals.
Proximity to supermarkets was another crucial element in my decision-making process. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to budget-conscious shoppers. Living close to essential stores, including pharmacies, proved especially beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, considering the city’s rich cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London are a vital component of its character, forming lively neighborhoods that showcase a range of cultures. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that provide a sense of comfort. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with activity, offering Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
Ultimately, the ideal area to call home in London is contingent upon your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re in search of a new residence or merely touring the city, London’s varied housing choices, cultural neighborhoods, and efficient transport system render it an exhilarating and lively place to reside. Embrace the city’s wealth, and you’ll discover a truly exceptional experience.
*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/)*