**Insights from Nine Months in London: Finding Housing and Community**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. While this may seem like a brief period, it has been ample time to absorb a wealth of knowledge about this lively and ever-evolving city. London is famous not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich diversity of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wide range of choices, from student accommodations to private rentals, encompassing ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is quite uncomplicated. In contrast, international students often utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout potential housing online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, access to public transport, and other critical features.
### The Hunt for Housing
When I initiated my search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My objective was to reside close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement between these zones.
To minimize travel expenses—since journeys between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer distances, the Oyster card provides reduced rates, making it a budget-friendly option for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the tube network, linking the outer zones to the city center. However, charges for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but also comes with steep living costs. To keep expenses in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rental fees. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as this allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age—something that is often more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. London accommodates a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students looking to cut costs. Proximity to essential facilities, such as grocery shops and pharmacies, is incredibly beneficial, particularly during exam periods when time is valuable.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, given the city’s vast diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural character, forming distinctive and lively neighborhoods. Many international students lean towards areas that exude a sense of familiarity.
For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End hosts a flurry of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These neighborhoods represent just a small selection of the city’s rich cultural landscape.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal location in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and needs. Whether you are investigating housing options, immersing yourself in cultural districts, or simply enjoying the city’s convenience and vibrancy, London caters to everyone. My time here has been an enlightening journey, and I eagerly anticipate continuing to embrace all that this extraordinary city has to offer.
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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/)*