**Residing in London: Nine Months Later**
*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 not appear extensive, I’ve gained a significant understanding of this vibrant city. London boasts a plethora of accommodation choices and a rich tapestry of communities. For students, there are numerous housing options available, ranging from student lodgings to private rentals, featuring amenities like ensuite and communal bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate prospective homes online, evaluate facilities, and consider the distance to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to stay, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s prominent attractions, social venues, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transit system, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between these zones. However, I was mindful of minimizing my travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can run as high as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the specific train operator.
Dwelling in Central London offers the advantage of proximity to major landmarks, but it also entails steeper living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our monthly rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages—something that would have been more challenging in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Among the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the perfect neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London form an integral aspect of the city’s cultural framework, presenting a myriad of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that remind them of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In the bustling heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is vibrant with Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s diversity.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new abode in this remarkable city, embrace the variety of its housing opportunities, delve into its rich cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and allure that London 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/)