**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has allowed me to gather valuable observations about existence in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its rich multicultural communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly simple. On the other hand, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover available accommodations online. These platforms offer information on amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial details, facilitating the process for newcomers to the city.
When I initiated my search for a place to stay, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near significant attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that makes traversing the zones quite convenient. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily transport costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I made a conscious choice to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For lengthier journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card greatly lowered travel expenses.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond central zones, encompassing a broader area. Nevertheless, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing policy of the train operator. Living in Central London provides unmatched access to attractions, but it also entails a steep cost of living. To control expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save significantly on rent.
I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with classmates from various backgrounds and similar age ranges. This lively environment would have been more challenging to recreate in private housing.
Another important consideration for me was residing near grocery stores. Being close to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op was crucial for my daily needs. For more economical choices, chains such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland served as excellent alternatives. Proximity to vital stores and pharmacies proved particularly beneficial during hectic periods, like exam weeks.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be a herculean task. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a rich fusion of traditions and cuisines. Many international students are drawn to areas that reflect the familiarity of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring an array of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a few instances of the cultural enclaves contributing to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal neighborhood to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing options, cultural neighborhoods, or its convenience and vibrancy, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the richness of this remarkable city, and you’ll discover a living situation that fulfills your requirements.
*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/)*