### My Nine Months in London: Lessons Acquired
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this time may not seem extensive, it has been sufficient to glean several important insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London serves not only as a center of varied accommodation choices but also as a melting pot of communities from across the globe. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing options, spanning from student-oriented accommodations to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly uncomplicated. Conversely, international students typically depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living arrangements online. These platforms offer information about amenities, proximity to public transport, and other crucial attributes, facilitating better planning.
### Securing My Place in Central London
As I initiated my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social centers, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs amounting to as much as £5.25.
To minimize travel expenses, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. For longer travels, I discovered that Oyster cards considerably lowered transport costs. In addition, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing outer zones. Although fares for these services differ based on distance and train operator, they provide a reliable means to explore regions outside Central London.
Residing in Central London carries a hefty cost, yet I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something less accessible with private rentals.
### Importance of Accessibility
For me, being near grocery stores was of utmost importance. London boasts a range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to save costs. Being in close proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proved invaluable, particularly during hectic exam periods.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse locales. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In the West End, Chinatown stands as a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural wealth London possesses.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London is contingent on your distinct interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its contemporary conveniences, London has something to offer everyone. My recommendation? Embrace the diversity of London’s housing options, discover its distinctive neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
—
*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/)*