**Reflections on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Perspective**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I set off on my adventure to London—a brief span of time, yet one rich with lessons and experiences. London is an energetic and varied city, not only in its cultural exuberance but also in the range of housing options and communities available. For students, the city offers numerous choices, from student accommodations to private housing, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, whereas international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find housing online. These resources enable users to assess amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details, facilitating the process for those arriving from overseas.
### Finding a Place to Call Home
When I started my accommodation search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Being near significant attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—makes it convenient to travel between zones.
To cut costs, I chose to stroll short distances rather than depend on public transport, as traveling between zones can incur fees of up to £5.25 daily. However, the Oyster card system has greatly decreased travel costs for students. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, providing extensive coverage. Travel fares on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the operating company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with high living expenses. To reduce our rent, my friend and I decided to share a room, which turned out to be a financially savvy choice. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that is often less available with private rentals.
### Convenience Matters
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students who want to pinch pennies. Having essential stores, including pharmacies, nearby is especially beneficial during busy times like exam periods.
### Exploring London’s Cultural Tapestry
Selecting a neighborhood in London is quite a challenge, considering the city’s rich cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its identity, providing insight into various cultures through their distinctive neighborhoods.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, replete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean roots and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant hub of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods offer international students a sense of comfort and connection to their homeland.
### Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. As you seek a home in this energetic city, welcome the diversity of housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement that London has to offer.
—
*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/)