### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I marked the completion of nine months residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, this time frame has been sufficient for me to gather a wealth of insights about this vibrant city. London is celebrated not only for its varied accommodation options but also for the lively communities that reside within it. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing possibilities, ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For those studying locally, arranging apartment viewings tends to be relatively simple. Conversely, international students can use platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible housing options online. These sites offer comprehensive information regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, facilitating the process for those who may be less familiar with the city.
### Securing a Home
When I commenced my search for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. My main concerns were close proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional public transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Traveling between zones could incur costs of up to £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly lessens commuting costs for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones, although fares diverge based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To alleviate costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I decided to reside in intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and shared ages—a blend that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### The Advantages of Location
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide affordable selections. Proximity to crucial stores, including pharmacies, is a significant time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate toward locales that evoke a sense of familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and shops selling traditional garments. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods signify just a fraction of the city’s cultural enclaves.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to live in London varies based on individual preferences and interests. Whether you are navigating the city’s extensive accommodation choices or diving into its culturally rich neighbourhoods, London caters to all. My experience here has instructed me to appreciate the diversity of this extraordinary city and seize the opportunities presented by its convenience and vibrancy.
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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/)