**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A little over nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided enough time to discover several significant lessons about living in this lively and diverse metropolis. London is not only famous for its renowned landmarks and busy streets but also for its variety of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of accommodation alternatives, ranging from student housing to private rentals that include ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple. In contrast, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential living arrangements online. These sites offer comprehensive details about facilities, accessibility to public transport, and other important features, simplifying the process for newcomers from abroad.
### Locating Your New Home
When I initiated my quest for a residence, my priority was securing a room in Central London. Being near major sites, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being at the core. The city’s superb public transportation system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can climb up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal voyages, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly lowered travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Tube network, providing wider access. However, fares for these services can fluctuate based on distance and the operating company.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that’s often difficult to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently located, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present solid options. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, proved crucial, especially during hectic times like exam periods when every moment counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s immense diversity. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural depth, offering distinctive neighbourhoods that suit various tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End provides a lively hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity and community for international students looking to connect with their heritage.
### Embracing London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London depends on your individual needs and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its contemporary conveniences, London has offerings for everyone. As you embark on your search for a place to call home, take the time to explore the city’s diverse accommodation options, immerse yourself in its rich cultural fabric, and relish the vibrancy of living in this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)*