**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some important insights about life in this lively metropolis. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich cultural mosaic of its neighborhoods. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is easy, while international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse available accommodations online. These websites offer information on facilities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details, simplifying the process for those unfamiliar with the city.
### Discovering a Place to Call Your Own
As I initiated my search for housing, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s impressive transport network—comprising the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transport. For extended commutes, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, though the fares for these services differ based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also presents challenges, particularly the steep living costs. To alleviate some of these expenses, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it provided the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private rentals might lack.
### Close to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a must-have. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while cost-effective choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to save. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, proves especially beneficial during exam periods when time is scarce.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel like a formidable task due to the city’s astonishing diversity. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural essence, providing a broad array of experiences. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its vibrant South Asian community, which boasts Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a handful of the city’s rich cultural areas.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural vibrancy of particular neighborhoods or the convenience of central locations, London offers something for everyone. As you embark on your search for a new home, take the time to delve into the city’s diverse housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural wealth, and relish the unique experiences that this extraordinary city 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/)