**Nine Months in London: Reflections from a Student’s Perspective**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to gather invaluable experiences about life in this dynamic and eclectic city. London not only provides a vast selection of accommodation but also presents a rich spectrum of communities that contribute to its uniqueness. For students, the city offers a multitude of living options, from university-owned housing to private residences, encompassing ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, organizing apartment viewings is generally simple. In contrast, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential homes online. These platforms deliver comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transit, making the search more user-friendly.
### Searching for the Ideal Living Space
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to stroll short distances rather than depend on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day, but the Oyster card system has greatly alleviated commuting costs for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Nonetheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails high living expenses. To control my outgoings, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to encounter peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Proximity to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. The most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also abundant. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during exam seasons when time is critical.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be intimidating, given the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial part of its cultural fabric, providing a host of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a feeling of community and belonging for those who are far from home.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are exploring a variety of accommodation options, immersing in its cultural neighborhoods, or simply relishing the benefits of its superb transport links, London caters to all.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding journey, and I am eager to uncover even more of what London has in store.
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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/)*