**Nine Months in London: Lessons Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant insights into the essence of living in this dynamic and multifaceted city. London is renowned not only for its vast selection of housing alternatives but also for the rich cultural communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation options, which include student residences, private rentals, ensuite and shared bathroom facilities, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Local students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online. These platforms furnish detailed accounts of amenities and closeness to public transportation, aiding in planning ahead.
### Discovering My Space in Central London
When I initiated my accommodation search, I concentrated on Central London to remain near prominent sites, social hotspots, and, most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the core zones being one and two. London’s impressive transport network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across these zones.
Nonetheless, commuting expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly alternative. Besides the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the central zones, with fares depending on distance and the train operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails high living costs. To manage our budget, my friend and I chose to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations since I aimed to socialize with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience more challenging to achieve in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prominent, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential shops and pharmacies proves particularly beneficial during hectic times, like exam periods, when every moment is precious.
### Discovering London’s Diverse Neighborhoods
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be overwhelming. The city’s abundant cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic communities, each offering a distinctive experience. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of their homeland.
As an illustration, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that render London exceptional.
### Discovering Your Ideal Spot
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you find allure in the city’s diverse accommodation choices, its cultural richness, or its accessible transport connections, London possesses something for everyone. Embrace the quest of discovering your new abode and take the time to explore the numerous facets of this extraordinary city.
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*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/)