**Nine Months in London: Experiences Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Nearly nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London, and although this period may not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insights about this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its diverse housing options but also for the myriad of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wide array of living arrangements, encompassing student housing to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.

When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I particularly sought a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key attractions, vibrant social spaces, and most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six circular zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between these zones. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, with inter-zonal travel costing as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer travels, the Oyster card has proven to be invaluable, providing discounted fare options for students. In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the central zones, although ticket prices vary based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.

Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with a significant cost. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a university friend. This collaboration greatly lowered our rental costs. Furthermore, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed for interaction with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s rarer in private rentals.

Closeness to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for budget-conscious shopping. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, turned out to be crucial, particularly during exam seasons when every moment counts.

Choosing the right area in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities serve as a foundation of its cultural diversity, showcasing a variety of distinctive neighbourhoods to discover. A significant number of international students tend to flock to areas that embody the essence of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling epicenter of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s cultural diversity.

Ultimately, the ideal locality to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re in the market for new lodgings or simply navigating the city, London’s diversity, rich cultural heritage, and extensive accommodation choices make it an extraordinary place to call home.

*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*

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