### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear lengthy, it has provided me ample opportunities to discover a significant amount about life in this dynamic city. London is famous not only for its varied accommodation types but also for the rich tapestry of communities that thrive here. For students, there is an abundance of housing selections available, from student halls to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily organize in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate amenities, and determine their distance from public transport options.
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, bustling social areas, and, critically, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an efficient transportation network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, proving to be a more economical choice for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, offering routes to areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on the distance traveled and the operating company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend who is also enrolled in university. This adjustment significantly lowered our rent costs. I also decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that private housing might not have facilitated as effortlessly.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those aiming to save money. Residing close to essential shops, including pharmacies, was invaluable, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
Determining the ideal neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a rich and varied living environment. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is noted for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, situated in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant venue filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods serve as just a few illustrations of London’s multicultural hubs.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual inclinations and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural richness, its convenience, or its distinctive neighborhoods, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the diversity of its accommodation choices, delve into its vibrant communities, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary city.
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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/)*