### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has granted me invaluable perspectives on life in this lively metropolis. London is not solely celebrated for its famed landmarks and vibrant history but also for its varied communities and extensive accommodation choices. Regardless of whether you are a student or a working professional, the city provides something for everyone.
### Securing Accommodation
London boasts an abundance of housing alternatives, ranging from student lodgings to private rentals. Options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For home students, arranging an apartment viewing is relatively simple. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms like **Rightmove**, **Zoopla**, or **SpareRoom** to browse properties online, assess amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
As I initiated my search, my primary focus was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. The city’s excellent transportation network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily expenses soaring to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, the **Oyster card** turned out to be a budget-friendly solution.
For those venturing beyond Central London, the **London Overground** and **National Rail** services reach the outer zones. Costs for these services are contingent on the distance traveled and the fare structure used by the train operator.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages but also high living expenses. To alleviate costs, I made the decision to share a room with a friend, markedly lowering our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Availability of Essentials
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include **Tesco**, **Sainsbury’s**, and **Co-op**, alongside budget-friendly choices like **Aldi**, **Lidl**, and **Iceland**. Having essential shops and pharmacies in the vicinity proved invaluable, notably during hectic exam periods when every minute counted.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, offering distinctive experiences in various locales.
For example, **Southall** in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. **Brixton**, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, **Chinatown**, nestled in the heart of the West End, presents a vibrant atmosphere with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that render London so unique. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke feelings of home, finding solace in familiar cuisine, customs, and community support.
### Concluding Reflections
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize proximity to your university, budget-friendliness, or cultural richness, London presents a multitude of options to explore.
As I contemplate my experiences here, I have come to value the city’s rich tapestry of communities, its convenient transport connections, and the thrill that accompanies residing in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. For anyone considering a move to London, I encourage you to welcome its diversity, investigate its neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy this extraordinary journey.
*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/)*