### My Nine-Month Experience in London: Observations and Thoughts
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated the completion of nine months living in London. Although it might not seem like a lengthy period, it has provided me with significant insights into the essence of this lively metropolis. London is famous not only for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant cultural communities that reside here. Students, in particular, enjoy a broad spectrum of housing possibilities. From student dormitories to private apartments, choices are diverse, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared accommodations.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is a simple process, while international students can turn to services such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for online accommodation searches. These platforms offer details on amenities and proximity to public transport, facilitating the journey for newcomers from overseas.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I started my quest for housing, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. Proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies movement through these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. For university travel, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, making it an economical option for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching outer zones. However, ticket prices for these services can differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, yet also higher living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly reduced our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with peers from different backgrounds and around the same age—something more challenging to achieve with private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during hectic exam times.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s considerable size and cultural richness. The diverse ethnic communities in London are a key part of its character, presenting a vibrant array of neighbourhoods to discover.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, replete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity for international students seeking ties to their native cultures.
### Maximizing Your London Experience
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central conveniences, London provides a vast array of housing options to meet various lifestyles. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its distinctive neighbourhoods, and relish the thrill of living in one of the globe’s most vibrant cities.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*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/)*