### My Nine-Month Adventure in London: Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. While it may not sound like a long duration, it has been sufficient to impart important lessons about life in this lively and diverse city. London is not only a center of cultural and historical landmarks but also a melting pot of communities and living arrangements that suit a variety of preferences and financial plans.
For students, securing accommodation is frequently the initial major hurdle. London presents a myriad of housing choices, including student residences and private rentals. These options span from ensuite and shared bathrooms to single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging an in-person apartment visit is quite simple. However, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential living spaces online. These websites offer insights about facilities, proximity to public transport, and other vital information to aid in making a wise choice.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, my specific aim was to find a room in Central London. Being close to major attractions, social districts, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transport network—including the Underground (commonly termed the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly, particularly when moving between zones. For example, inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 per day.
To reduce transportation expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transport. For lengthier journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card considerably lowered my travel costs. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, providing further connectivity. However, fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing strategy of the train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, but it also presents challenges, especially concerning the high living costs. To handle expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This decision allowed us to save significantly on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that private housing might not facilitate as readily.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was an essential criterion. Some of the more prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Being in proximity to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proved to be a major time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, considering the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its character, contributing a rich cultural fabric through various neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s cultural diversity.
### Maximizing Your London Experience
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenience, or its vibrancy, London has something to offer everyone. My recommendation for anyone on the lookout for a home here is to embrace the city’s diversity, explore its distinct neighbourhoods, and fully engage with the remarkable opportunities it provides.
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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/)*