**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure to reside in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has provided me with significant perspectives on living in this lively and diverse metropolis. London is renowned not just for its famous sights and deep-rooted history but also for its numerous housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of living arrangements, ranging from student housing to private leases, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, securing accommodation is relatively simple, with face-to-face apartment viewings being commonplace. Conversely, for international students like me, websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are invaluable resources. These platforms enable prospective renters to investigate listings online, assess amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport links, thereby streamlining the process.
### Locating a Place to Reside
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain within proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones representing the most central areas. The city’s extensive transport system, which encompasses the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones.
To cut down on travel costs—since journeys between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 daily—I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transportation. For longer journeys, I discovered that an Oyster card significantly lowered travel expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing access to outer zones. However, pricing for these services differs based on distance and the train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages along with elevated living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a university friend. This setup allowed us to divide the rent and save significantly. I selected intercollegiate student housing, eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar eras—a mix that is often scarce in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a crucial factor. London hosts a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students aiming to economize. Proximity to vital shops and pharmacies was a considerable time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expansiveness and diversity. London’s ethnic enclaves form a key component of its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of neighborhoods that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that reflect the familiarity of their home environments.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and bustling music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a thriving locality packed with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural gatherings. These areas are but a few illustrations of the cultural diversity that London has to offer.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural hubs, its ease of access, or its lively social atmosphere, London has something for everyone. My experience in finding a home here has taught me to appreciate the diversity of housing options, explore the city’s distinctive neighborhoods, and fully engage with the vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)