**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient to acquire significant understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is a metropolis that flourishes on its rich diversity—not merely in terms of its inhabitants but also its housing alternatives. Students in this city are presented with a wealth of choices, spanning from ensuite rooms and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and shared houses. For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is a simple task, while international students can turn to websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate housing, amenities, and transport options online.
As I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I set my sights on a room in Central London. My aim was to remain in proximity to the city’s primary attractions, lively social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the closest to the center. The city boasts a superb public transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies traveling across these zones. However, crossing zones may incur a hefty charge, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I tended to walk shorter stretches instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that utilizing an Oyster card considerably lowered travel expenses. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the Underground system, providing wider coverage, albeit with varied fares based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages, yet it also entails steep living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who is also attending the same university. This arrangement not only lessened our rent but also enhanced our experience. I selected intercollegiate student housing, as I aspired to connect with peers of differing backgrounds and similar ages—something private housing might not readily have facilitated.
Having grocery stores nearby was another necessity for me. London features a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those aiming to economize. Residing near essential shops proved particularly advantageous during exam times when every moment counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can pose a challenge due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic enclaves significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, providing international students with a sense of belonging. For example, Southall in West London is home to a vibrant South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. In the heart of the West End, Chinatown offers a touch of Chinese culture, featuring its restaurants, shops, and festivals. These neighborhoods exemplify just a few of the cultural hubs that render London distinctive.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal inclinations and necessities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural depth, its varied housing choices, or its ease and vibrancy, London possesses something to appeal to everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your home here, and relish all that this extraordinary city has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
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/)