**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Odyssey**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Though this may appear to be a brief period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to learn about this lively and diverse metropolis. London is renowned not only for its famous landmarks and deep-seated history but also for its extensive range of housing alternatives and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a wealth of housing options, encompassing student accommodations and private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover accommodations online. These platforms furnish details about amenities and the proximity to public transportation, facilitating informed decisions from a distance.
### Locating a Home
In my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s prominent attractions, social gathering places, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a superb public transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that makes traversing between zones effortless.
Nonetheless, transport expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To save on costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. For lengthier commutes, I discovered that an Oyster card greatly minimized travel costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. While fares for these services differ based on distance and train operator, they present convenient options for city exploration.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep my budget in check, I decided to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at the university. This arrangement enabled us to divide the rent and save a significant sum. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a high priority. London hosts a variety of supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are favored options. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly useful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, as each area possesses its own distinctive charm. The city’s ethnic communities are an integral component of its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of experiences.
Numerous international students gravitate towards neighborhoods that evoke feelings of home. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub overflowing with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the varied neighborhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Discovering Your Ideal Spot
Ultimately, the most suitable location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenience, or its vibrant atmosphere, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity of its housing options, delve into its rich cultural tapestry, and immerse yourself in the thrill of this extraordinary city.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)*