**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has provided me with insights into life in this dynamic city. London is not merely a center for varied housing options but also a blend of communities from throughout the globe. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student housing to private rentals. These include options such as ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly easy, but international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms enable potential tenants to browse housing online, examine available amenities, and evaluate closeness to transport links.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my search for a living space, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s extensive transit system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
To minimize transportation expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of frequently using public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but special Oyster card options have made commuting easier for students. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, although ticket prices vary by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages but also escalated living costs. To keep expenses in check, I opted to share a room with a friend. This not only substantially lowered rent but also enhanced my overall experience. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity less common in private rentals.
### Proximity to Essentials
A primary concern for me was living close to grocery shops. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exams.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, providing a rich spectrum of experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke a sense of home.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Likewise, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighbourhoods represent only a snippet of the cultural diversity that sets London apart.
### Embracing London Life
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s array of housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or simply appreciating the ease of its transport connections, London caters to everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a fulfilling journey, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what it has to offer.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)*