### Nine Months in London: Insights from a Master’s Student
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Almost nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe might seem brief, it’s sufficient for me to gather a number of invaluable insights regarding life in this lively and ever-evolving city. London stands out not only for its cultural and community diversity but also for the vast array of housing options available for students. Whether seeking student accommodations or private rentals, the selections are plentiful—ranging from ensuite and shared facilities to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, arranging a physical viewing of an apartment is quite simple. In contrast, international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider their distance from public transportation.
### Locating Your Home
As I initiated my search for housing, my primary goal was to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to significant landmarks, social centers, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport network—comprising the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones.
Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 each day. To economize on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, making it an economical choice for students. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail systems link areas outside the central zones, although ticket prices differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an aspect of social life that is harder to find in private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, it was crucial to live near grocery outlets. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students on a tight budget. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam periods, making errands quicker and simpler.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be tough due to the city’s vastness and diversity. The ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural essence, bringing a rich mix of traditions and cuisines. Many international students are inclined to settle in areas that mirror the essence of their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, retail establishments, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural hubs that add to London’s uniqueness.
### Maximizing Your London Experience
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural variety, its convenience, or its vibrant atmosphere, there’s a neighbourhood and housing choice to meet every need.
For anyone in pursuit of a new residence in London, I urge you to embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its rich cultural neighborhoods, and relish the thrill of living in one of the most extraordinary cities in the world.
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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/)*