**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although it may not appear as an extensive duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful knowledge regarding life in this vibrant city. London is a metropolitan area that flourishes on its diversity—not solely in its residents and cultures but also in its housing alternatives. Students here are blessed with options, whether they choose student accommodation or private rentals. From ensuite and communal bathrooms to studio flats and shared houses, there’s an option for everyone.
For international students like me, platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are essential resources. These websites enable us to examine possible living arrangements online, assess amenities, and verify distance to public transport connections. In contrast, local students often benefit from the ability to arrange in-person property viewings.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. My main objective was to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 hosting the most central areas. London’s remarkable transportation network—including the Underground (or “Tube”), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation between zones. However, traveling between zones can become costly, with expenses reaching up to £5.25 per day.
To cut down on travel costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card was a budget-friendly choice. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground system, reaching locales further from the city core. However, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also its drawbacks, particularly concerning the high living expenses. To handle costs, my friend and I chose to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals might not have facilitated as readily.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, the importance of living close to grocery stores was paramount. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent throughout London, while more budget-conscious choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, especially during busy times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can indeed be a challenging endeavor. The city’s extensive cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic quarters, each providing a distinct experience. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that remind them of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural hubs that give London its unique character.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the most suitable place to establish your residence in London relies on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodation options, its cultural richness, or its practicality, London caters to all. My recommendation? Embrace the experience, discover the neighborhoods, and fully enjoy this extraordinary city.
—
*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/)*