### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days back, I hit the nine-month mark since relocating to London. While it might not sound like an extended period, it’s been ample time for me to absorb a wealth of knowledge about this dynamic city. London boasts not just a variety of accommodation options but also rich community diversity, catering to a broad spectrum of individuals. Particularly for students, there exists a plethora of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices range from ensuite to shared bathrooms, private to shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is quite simple, while international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to look through properties online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, my primary goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social spots, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s superb transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement throughout these zones. However, traveling between zones can rack up costs, with daily fares soaring to £5.25. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly lessen travel expenses for students. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services expand toward regions beyond central London, yet fares differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To manage rental costs, I made the decision to share a room with a fellow university student. This setup proved financially beneficial and enabled us to divide costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation since I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private housing might not easily afford.
The location of grocery stores was another significant consideration in my choice. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students eager to save. Living close to vital stores, including pharmacies, turned out to be invaluable, especially during hectic periods like exams.
Determining the ideal neighbourhood for living can be daunting. London’s vast cultural diversity shines through its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. For example, Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with energy, showcasing Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These districts offer a sense of comfort and belonging to international students yearning for a link to their native culture.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation offerings, its cultural hubs, or its convenience and vibrancy, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of seeking your perfect home and relish everything this extraordinary city has to share.
*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/)*