**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months might appear brief, I’ve gained significant insights throughout this time. London is a remarkably dynamic city, not only featuring a variety of housing alternatives but also showcasing a rich blend of communities that inhabit it. Students particularly benefit from an array of choices available to them. Whether searching for student accommodation or private living options, you’ll encounter possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can depend on resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online, view amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social spots, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city is served by an excellent public transport system that includes the Underground (commonly called the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of travel across zones. Nevertheless, I was eager to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances instead of opting for the bus or Tube. That said, the Oyster card system has significantly reduced my commuting costs to university. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services depend on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London brings certain advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. Personally, I favored living in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I sought to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging with private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Some of London’s most prevalent supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a complex decision. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich selection of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring various Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the many community-driven neighbourhoods throughout London.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new abode in this city, appreciate the diversity of its accommodation choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London has to offer.
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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/)*