**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may not appear to be an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some significant knowledge throughout this timeframe. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, marked not only by its extensive range of accommodation choices but also by the multicultural societies that inhabit it. Students here enjoy an abundance of housing alternatives readily accessible. Be it student residences or private lodgings, the options vary from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly simple, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodation online, evaluate available amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to reside near the city’s key attractions, vibrant social spots, and, of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transport network—including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—that ensures easy navigation and connectivity between zones. Nonetheless, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commuting can be as high as £5.25 per day. To economize, I decided to walk short distances rather than depend on public transportation. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card can greatly decrease commuting costs to university. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also translates to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as I was eager to connect with students from various backgrounds in a similar age range—something that would be tougher to achieve in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Some prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely advantageous, especially during hectic times like finals.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in is quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities constitute a crucial element of the city’s cultural tapestry, showcasing a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian demographic and features a multitude of Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton thrives with its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End of London, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of the numerous community-focused neighborhoods throughout London.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new residence in this remarkable city, take the opportunity to appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of London’s accommodation options, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that London presents.
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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/)