**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure in London, and although it might not appear to be an extensive period, it has afforded me several valuable insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London showcases an array of cultures and communities, as well as various accommodation choices to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there is an abundance of housing alternatives, from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students residing at home, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. Conversely, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find accommodation online. These platforms offer comprehensive details on amenities, accessibility to public transportation, and other critical information, simplifying the search process significantly.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my search, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. Being near major sites, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel between these zones effortlessly.
However, the cost of transportation can accumulate rapidly. For instance, traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. To cut down on expenses, I decided to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides cheaper travel options, making it a wallet-friendly choice for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside Central London.
Residing in Central London brings advantages but also includes steep living costs. To help manage my finances, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more difficult with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
One of my main objectives was to live in proximity to grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are fantastic for cost-saving. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly practical, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s vast cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that reflect the comforts of their home countries. For example:
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, Southall features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London):** Famous for its Afro-Caribbean ambiance, Brixton is celebrated for its lively music scene and cultural richness.
– **Chinatown (Central London):** Situated in the West End, Chinatown is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighborhoods represent just a few instances of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the best area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are exploring the city’s varied accommodation options, delving into its cultural neighborhoods, or reveling in its convenience and vibrancy, London caters to everyone’s tastes.
My time in London has been profoundly enriching, and these nine months have taught me to embrace the city’s diversity, tackle its challenges, and enjoy its endless possibilities.
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*By Guest Blogger*
Categorized 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/)