**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to grasp some important insights about life in this lively metropolis. London boasts a remarkable variety not only in its accommodation choices but also in the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students have a wealth of options when it comes to housing. Whether searching for student residences or private rentals, one can find a range that includes 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 platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing, assess available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I initiated my quest for a place to live, my primary goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social venues, and, naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy access between these zones. Nonetheless, I aimed to reduce my travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, using an Oyster card has rendered commuting to university much more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, providing connections beyond central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific pricing structures of the train operators.
Residing in Central London offers the advantage of being near major attractions, yet this comes with the downside of higher living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging in private housing.
One of my personal priorities was proximity to grocery stores. The most common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Deciding on the ideal neighbourhood to reside in can be challenging. The ethnic communities in London form an integral part of the city’s cultural landscape, offering a rich array of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students often seek out regions that resemble their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community and hosts numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous lively community neighbourhoods in London.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new abode in this remarkable city, take the opportunity to appreciate the variety of London’s accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that accompanies life in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*