**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just nine months ago, I began my adventure of living in London. While this period may appear brief, it has provided me with significant insights about life in this lively city. London is celebrated not only for its varied accommodation options but also for the rich mix of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing alternatives, including student housing and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite easy, while international students can utilize resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential lodgings, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport—all from the comfort of their existing location.
### Locating the Ideal Living Situation
In my quest, I concentrated on renting a room in Central London to remain in proximity to major attractions, social spots, and the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates commuting across zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate, with inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25 each day.
To curtail costs, I chose to walk short distances rather than depending on buses or the tube. For longer journeys, the Oyster card considerably lowers travel fares for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones, though prices fluctuate based on distance and rail company.
Living in Central London brings advantages but also elevated living costs. To alleviate expenses, I shared a room with a friend, leading to substantial rent savings. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered chances to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
Being near grocery stores was a key concern for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students wishing to save. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is exceptionally helpful, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Cultural Tapestry
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. The ethnic communities in London are a crucial aspect of its cultural landscape, contributing to a range of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students flock to areas that showcase the culture of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods illustrate just a fragment of the city’s diverse cultural enclaves.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal living area in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether it’s closeness to your university, cultural resonance, or access to amenities, London has something for everyone. As you seek your new residence, immerse yourself in the city’s diversity, discover its cultural wealth, and relish the convenience and thrill that London presents.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
**Categorized 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/)