**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not feel extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge during this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not just in the scope of various housing options but also in its rich tapestry of communities. Students, in particular, have a multitude of choices available to them. From student residences to private rentals, there is a wide range, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily arrange in-person viewings for flats, while international students often depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover possible accommodations online, review available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my own quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to key landmarks, social venues, and, undoubtedly, Imperial College’s campus was crucial for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features a superb transport network, consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of travel across various zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the offerings on the Oyster card have made commuting to university considerably more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube system, reaching areas outside the city center. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare schedules of each train service.
Living in Central London offers the advantage of closeness to significant attractions, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was studying alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which enabled us to substantially reduce our rent costs. I preferred staying in intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Notable supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a major time-saver, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural scene, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek solace in these communities. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the heart of London’s West End lies Chinatown, a bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely examples of the countless community-rich neighborhoods found in London.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and necessities. Whether you’re in search of a new home or just wandering through the city, appreciate the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, uncover its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
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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/)*