**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided ample opportunity to discover and acclimatize to the dynamic lifestyle this city presents. London serves not only as a center for varied housing choices but also as a blend of cultures from all corners of the world. For students, the city offers an abundance of housing arrangements, from student residences to private homes. Choices encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared living spaces, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students find it relatively easy to book viewings, while international students can take advantage of sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to research housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to transport links.
### Securing the Ideal Living Space
As I started my quest for housing, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial College’s campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. The city prides itself on its exceptional transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates smooth travel between zones.
Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rather quickly—inter-zonal journeys may cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card proved invaluable, providing reduced fares for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones with the city center. Travel costs on these services depend on the distance and fare system of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers many advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To cope with costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also at university. This decision significantly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing since I aimed to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. London hosts several prominent supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also available. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies has been extremely beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Appropriate Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood to reside in is quite a challenge. London’s extensive cultural diversity is mirrored in its neighborhoods, each presenting a distinct experience. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that offer a sense of familiarity.
– **Southall (West London):** Recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, Southall serves as a center for Indian dining, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean neighborhood, Brixton features a lively music culture and various cultural events.
– **Chinatown (West End):** Situated in the heart of London, Chinatown is a busy enclave brimming with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural activities.
These neighborhoods represent just a few of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s unique charm.
### Closing Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately relies on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing choices, its cultural abundance, or its practicality, London offers something for everyone. My suggestion to anyone seeking a home in this city is to embrace its diversity, explore its lively neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the experiences this remarkable metropolis provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
**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/)