**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure in London, and although this might not appear to be a significant duration, it has been ample time to understand and experience a myriad of aspects about this lively city. London is famous not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich cultural mosaic of its residents. For students, the city presents a vast array of living arrangements, from student residences to private rentals, which encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings tends to be relatively uncomplicated. On the other hand, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential future homes online. These platforms offer information about facilities, public transport connections, and other crucial details, facilitating the experience for newcomers from overseas.
### Searching for a Place to Live
As I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to remain near key attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. The city boasts an excellent transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which simplifies movement across zones.
However, journey costs can accumulate swiftly. For example, travelling between zones can be as much as £5.25 daily. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transportation. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card significantly lowered travel costs. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground’s reach, providing wider coverage, though fare prices can fluctuate based on distance and the train company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To manage these costs, I decided to share a room with a friend who was also in university. This setup enabled us to divide the rent and significantly save. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it offered the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that is more challenging with private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widespread, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near these vital stores and pharmacies proved to be invaluable, especially during exam times when every minute counts.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite demanding. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural narrative, presenting a rich amalgamation of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students are drawn to neighborhoods that offer a sense of familiarity.
For instance, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music ambiance. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These locales are merely a few representations of the city’s varied cultural landscape.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal location in London is determined by your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re navigating the city’s diverse housing options, submerging yourself in its cultural regions, or relishing the ease of its superb transportation links, London caters to all.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding experience, and I eagerly anticipate continuing to discover everything it has to offer.
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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/)*