**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear lengthy, it has been sufficient for me to acquire significant understanding about this vibrant city. London is famous not only for its diverse living arrangements but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an array of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students may turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine properties online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport options.
When I initiated my apartment search, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major attractions, social spots, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones. However, cross-zone travel can add up in cost, with daily expenses soaring to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transportation. For longer journeys, the Oyster card became indispensable, providing reduced fares for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with prices varying by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes at a premium, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that private living might not have provided.
Access to grocery stores was another significant factor for me. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to cut costs. Living close to essential stores, including pharmacies, turned out to be a time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities form a fundamental part of its cultural richness, providing a range of vibrant districts. Many international students gravitate towards areas that resonate with the familiarity of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few highlights of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is determined by your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s wide-ranging housing options, its cultural communities, or the ease of its transport connections, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity of this extraordinary city, and make the most of your time here.
*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/)*