**Residing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**

*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Just a few days back, I reached the nine-month milestone of my journey in London. Though nine months might not appear extensive, I have gained significant insights about the city in this time. London is an ever-changing and multicultural setting, not only boasting a vast array of housing options but also the richness of its various communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of living choices readily available. Whether you seek student accommodations or private housing, options range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is simple, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties, evaluate amenities, and check the distance to public transport.

When I commenced my housing search, my aim was to secure a room in Central London. My goal was to be near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—featuring the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these zones. However, I was eager to keep my travel costs minimal since commuting between zones can reach up to £5.25 per day. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than opt for the bus or Tube. Nonetheless, an Oyster card can greatly lower travel costs, particularly for university journeys. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking areas beyond central London. The fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare system of the train operator.

Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses due to its closeness to major attractions. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something less feasible in private housing.

Proximity to grocery shops was among my key considerations when selecting a residence. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also conveniently located. Living near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.

Deciding on the right neighborhood in London can be challenging. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is a hub for a significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, presents a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight a fraction of the many community-centric neighborhoods throughout London.

In conclusion, the optimal area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your journey to find a new abode in this city, take time to appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that London has to offer.

*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/)

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