**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, this time has provided me with important insights about living in this lively city. London is renowned not just for its varied accommodation selections but also for the diverse communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a wide array of housing options, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally simple. Conversely, international students typically depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to find potential living arrangements online. These sites offer comprehensive details about facilities, closeness to public transport, and other key aspects, simplifying the process for newcomers to the city.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
In my quest for a residence, I focused on finding a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social areas, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones.
However, traveling between zones can be costly, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To minimize travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides more economical travel options for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with the city center. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific train provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with high living expenses. To control costs, I decided to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic often harder to find in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
Being near grocery stores was another priority for me. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students looking to economize. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is particularly helpful during busy periods like exam time.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, offering a multitude of distinctive neighborhoods to discover. Many international students gravitate toward areas that provide a semblance of familiarity and ties to their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is acknowledged for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, presents a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural diversity.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural hotspots, close proximity to your college, or budget-friendly options, London offers something for all. My suggestion to anyone on the hunt for accommodation in this vibrant city is to embrace its diversity, delve into its unique neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that London provides.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*