**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is a metropolis that flourishes due to its diversity—not merely in its inhabitants, but also in its housing alternatives. For students, the options are plentiful, encompassing student residences and private housing. Choices vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential housing options online. These sites offer detailed information regarding amenities, proximity to public transport, and other vital details, facilitating future planning.
### Discovering a Place to Live
As I commenced my quest for accommodation, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. My main aim was to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network, including the Underground (widely known as the Tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to traverse between these zones.
To minimize expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily, but using an Oyster card can considerably lessen these costs, particularly for university travels. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, though fares differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it’s well-known that the living expenses here are steep. To handle my budget, I decided to share a room with a friend who was also going to university. This decision allowed us to save considerably on rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a chance that would have been more challenging to find in private housing.
### Location Matters
For me, living near grocery stores was a primary concern. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, in addition to budget-friendly chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland, which are also broadly accessible. Proximity to essential amenities, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves a significant amount of time, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Celebrating London’s Cultural Richness
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming, given its extensive nature and diversity. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students lean towards areas that offer a sense of familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London presents a lively area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of the numerous cultural centers that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Identifying Your Perfect Neighbourhood
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize closeness to your university, cultural resonance, or access to necessary services, London caters to all.
As you embark on your search for a new home, take the opportunity to explore the city’s varied housing choices, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and welcome the thrill and convenience of living in one of the globe’s most dynamic cities.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)