### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days back, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has afforded me the opportunity to glean some precious insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich diversity not only in its cultures and communities but also in its housing choices. Students here encounter a broad spectrum of options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studios, and house shares.
For home students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students often turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential homes online. These sites offer comprehensive details on amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial information, facilitating the transition for those arriving from overseas.
### Securing a Place to Reside
As I initiated my accommodation hunt, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. Residing centrally meant being in proximity to significant attractions, vibrant social spots, and, notably, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies movement between zones.
To economize on travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances in lieu of relying on public transport. Traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily, but there are discounted Oyster card options that render commuting to university more economical. For extended journeys, London Overground and National Rail services venture beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. However, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To alleviate costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which notably decreased our rent. I decided to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, with the hope of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, while more budget-conscious choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, conserves time and effort, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its identity, forming vibrant enclaves that provide a sense of comfort for international students.
For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and spirited music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the centre of London’s West End showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a handful of examples of the city’s multicultural essence.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re investigating the city’s varied housing options, delving into its cultural neighbourhoods, or appreciating the benefits of its outstanding transport connections, London has something to offer for everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been an exhilarating journey thus far, and I eagerly anticipate discovering even more of what it has in store.
—
*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/)*