**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be an extended period, this time has been enriched with invaluable experiences and lessons. London is a vibrant and culturally diverse city, presenting not only a plethora of housing choices but also lively communities that enhance its uniqueness as a living environment. For students, there are countless options available, including student residences and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, while international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for properties online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding facilities and closeness to public transport, making the search significantly easier.
### Searching for Your New Home
When I initiated my housing search, I was eager to find a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates traveling across zones. However, transport costs can accumulate; traveling between zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day.
To minimize transportation costs, I chose to walk shorter distances whenever possible instead of using public transit. For lengthier journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card substantially cut down on fares. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Even though fares for these services differ based on distance and operator, they provide a practical means to explore the city.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also comes with elevated living expenses. To better manage costs, I decided to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Location
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most popular supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved to be a timesaver, particularly during exam seasons when every second is crucial.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing where to live in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, offering a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent only a fraction of London’s cultural richness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal neighborhood for you will hinge on your individual likes and requirements. Whether you’re interested in the cultural depth of London’s ethnic enclaves or the practicality of central areas, the city has something to offer for everyone.
As you seek your new home in London, take the opportunity to investigate its varied accommodation options, engage with its cultural communities, and relish the thrill of residing in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.
*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/)