**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Perspective**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear lengthy, it has been sufficient to acquire several significant insights about life in this lively city. London stands as a hub of cultures and communities, providing a wide array of housing choices for students. From student accommodations to private leases, there is something to suit every preference—be it ensuite rooms, shared living, studio flats, or house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple. In contrast, international students can depend on services such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for possible housing options online. These websites offer information regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other important features, facilitating the transition for those relocating from abroad.
As I kicked off my search, I was eager to secure a room in Central London, near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation network, which includes the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, allows for convenient travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances to save on costs. For longer trips, the Oyster card presents more economical travel alternatives for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the central zones, though rates differ based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London offers distinct advantages but also entails increased living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share accommodations with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is more difficult to find in private renting.
Another essential consideration for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is immensely advantageous, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting distinctive neighborhoods that cater to varied tastes and preferences. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizeable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide a sense of belonging and community for international students wishing to connect with their heritage.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you’re delving into the city’s diverse housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or simply enjoying the benefits of its superb transport connections, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity of this incredible city and maximize 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/)*