**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insight on Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I started my adventure of residing in London, and although it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has afforded me the chance to gain significant insights about this dynamic city. London is famous not only for its varied accommodation possibilities but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student accommodations to private rentals, including choices like ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling viewings is relatively hassle-free, whereas international students can utilize resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine properties online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and their closeness to public transport, streamlining the process for newcomers arriving from overseas.
### Locating a Place to Call Your Own
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to reside near significant landmarks, social centers, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation infrastructure—including the Underground (better known as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making it an economical choice for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with the city center. However, prices for these services vary based on distance and the fare structures of the train operators.
Residing in Central London offers its benefits, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To mitigate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I also picked intercollegiate student accommodations since I wanted to connect with peers from assorted backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that private rentals might not have provided.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are common, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to cut expenses. Being close to vital stores, including pharmacies, is especially beneficial during hectic times such as exam periods, allowing for the efficient management of errands.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s expansive nature and diversity. The ethnic communities of London are critical to its cultural essence, presenting a wealth of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to favor areas that resonate with their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community, highlighting Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, found in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods exemplify how London’s multiculturalism is mirrored within its communities.
### Celebrating London’s Variety
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural enclaves of the city or its contemporary amenities, London has something available for everyone. As you embark on your search for a new home, be sure to explore the city’s varied housing options and immerse yourself in the distinctive experiences that each area presents.
Living in London has proven to be an exhilarating and enriching journey, and I am excited about uncovering even more of the incredible experiences this exceptional city has in store.
*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/)*