**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has allowed me to glean several important insights about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its famous landmarks and deep-rooted history but also for its multicultural neighborhoods and a vast array of housing choices. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city presents numerous living options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring ensuite or shared bathrooms, single rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students based in the UK, arranging apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. Conversely, international students frequently depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout for accommodation options online. These resources offer comprehensive details about facilities, access to public transport, and other critical elements, simplifying the process for those relocating from overseas.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my accommodation search, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social hotspots, and my university, Imperial College, was important to me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transportation system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between different zones.
Nonetheless, commuting expenses can accumulate quickly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I often chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer commutes, using an Oyster card was a financially savvy choice, particularly for universityrelated travel. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, serving areas outside of central London, with different fare systems depending on distance and train provider.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with elevated living costs. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share accommodations with a fellow student attending university. This decision significantly lowered our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate housing, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available for those looking to economize on groceries. Proximity to basic stores, including pharmacies, saves considerable time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite daunting, given the city’s size and diversity. The rich tapestry of London’s ethnic communities forms an integral part of its cultural identity, showcasing an array of neighbourhoods with distinct characteristics. A number of international students tend to favor locations that resonate with their hometown cultures.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, boasting a wealth of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a fraction of the city’s multicultural landscape.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are drawn to the city’s cultural enclaves or lush central offerings, London has something to cater to everyone. As you navigate the search for your next home, take time to discover the wide-ranging accommodation alternatives the city has to present, immerse yourself in its lively communities, and relish the convenience and excitement that London provides.
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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/)