**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunities to gather important lessons about life in this dynamic metropolis. London is not only a center for varied housing options but also a vibrant amalgamation of communities from across the globe. For students, the city presents an abundance of lodging selections, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. On the other hand, international students can turn to websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential living arrangements online. These platforms offer information regarding amenities and access to public transportation, simplifying the process for those relocating from overseas.
When I initiated my quest for a place to call home, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy travel between zones. However, moving between zones can become pricey, with daily costs climbing up to £5.25. To curb travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card allows for reduced fares, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.
Besides the Underground, both the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside of central London. While fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the train company, they offer a practical means of traversing the city.
Residing in Central London certainly comes with a steep price, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rental costs. I decided to live in intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private rentals might not have provided.
Access to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students eager to save money. Living near essential shops and pharmacies proved crucial, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be difficult, given the city’s abundant cultural diversity. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the comfort of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods exemplify London’s multicultural fabric.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted by the city’s varied housing options, cultural districts, or unmatched convenience, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity of this exceptional city and make the most of your experience here.
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*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/)*