### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I embarked on my adventure in London, and although this duration might appear brief, it has been sufficient to acquire some important lessons. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive variety of housing options but also by the richness of its communities. For students, the city presents a myriad of living arrangements, from student residences to private rentals, encompassing choices like ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing tends to be fairly simple. In contrast, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate living options online. These resources offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial information, facilitating planning from a distance.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
As I commenced my quest for a room, I targeted Central London. My objective was to reside near key landmarks, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is split into six concentric zones, with the prime areas being zones one and two. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—making it convenient to traverse between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport, as inter-zonal travel could amount to £5.25 daily. For farther journeys, I discovered that employing an Oyster card considerably lessened costs. The London Overground and National Rail services also stretch beyond the Underground, covering outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and operator.
Nonetheless, residing in Central London comes with a steep cost. To mitigate expenses, I chose to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that private rentals might not have afforded.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for budget-conscious shopping. Being situated close to vital shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proved indispensable, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Appropriate Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s vibrant cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, each delivering a distinctive experience. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton**, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling neighborhood teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
These locations are just a glimpse of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s allure as a fascinating place to reside.
### Embracing Life in London
The ideal area to call home in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural depth, or the ease of its transport links, London offers something for everyone.
For those on the lookout for a new residence in this remarkable city, I urge you to embrace its diversity, delve into its vibrant communities, and seize the opportunities that arise.
—
*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/)*