### Insights from Nine Months in London: A Scholar’s View
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. While this timeframe might not seem extensive, it has been sufficient to gather important perspectives on living in this lively and multicultural city. London provides not only numerous housing options but also a colorful mix of communities that contribute to its distinctive character. For students, the city features a wide variety of selections, ranging from student residences to private housing options, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is generally simple. In contrast, international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate suitable accommodations online. These websites offer information about facilities, accessibility to public transportation, and other crucial details, simplifying the search process.
### Securing the Ideal Living Space
In my accommodation hunt, I emphasized finding a room in Central London. Being near key landmarks, vibrant social spots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can escalate quickly. For instance, inter-zonal journeys may cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer routes, the Oyster card system provides reduced travel rates, particularly advantageous for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of the train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To manage costs, I chose to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is often harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was crucial. The most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For budget-conscious shoppers, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are popular alternatives. Being close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies saves considerable time, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a critical role in its cultural fabric, showcasing a range of vibrant and diverse places to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate towards neighbourhoods that evoke memories of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian population, brimming with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, located in South London, is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End boasts a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas represent just a fraction of the city’s rich cultural quarters.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the optimal location to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural diversity, its convenience, or its multitude of exploratory opportunities, London offers something for everyone. My suggestion for anyone on the hunt for a new home in this remarkable city is to appreciate its diversity, immerse yourself in its cultural wealth, and seize the exciting experiences it presents.
—
*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/)*