**Nine Months in London: An Exploration of Housing and Community**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Though this may appear brief, it has been sufficient to discover and engage with the city’s distinct energy. London serves as a hub of cultures and communities, presenting an impressive range of accommodation choices for students. Whether in search of student housing or private rentals, options abound—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These tools offer insights regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital details, streamlining the search experience.
### Securing My Spot in Central London
As I initiated my quest for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to stay near key attractions, social gathering places, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The excellent transportation system—including the Underground (commonly known as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 per day. To cut expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, I utilized an Oyster card, which greatly lowers travel costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, providing links to outer zones. The fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Residing in Central London brings benefits, yet it also entails high living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement allowed us to make significant savings on rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with classmates from various backgrounds and age groups—an assemblage that might be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Close to Amenities
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, is incredibly advantageous, especially during busy times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is a formidable task. The city’s abundant cultural diversity is mirrored in its different ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. Many international students are drawn to areas that remind them of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are just a glimpse of the city’s cultural pockets.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London relies on your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of certain neighbourhoods or the practicality of central locations, London delivers something for everyone.
As you seek a place to call home in this exceptional city, take the time to dive into its varied accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural spaces, and savor the thrill and convenience that London has to offer.
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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/)*