**Residing in London: Nine Months of Revelations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may not feel extensive, it has been sufficient to acquire significant revelations about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant and multicultural communities. For students, the city presents a wealth of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. These options include ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple. At the same time, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate prospective living arrangements online. These resources offer comprehensive details about facilities and proximity to public transport, streamlining the search experience.
### Securing a Place to Call My Own
As I commenced my hunt for a place to stay, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is sectioned into six concentric regions, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement between zones.
To conserve on transport costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly diminishes commuting expenses for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, serving areas beyond central London. However, fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structures of the train operators.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To alleviate costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent expenses. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation, as it provided a chance to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging in private rentals.
### Close to Essentials
Being near grocery stores was a crucial element for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Having essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, within close proximity is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, offering a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to locations that provide a sense of familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of the city’s culturally vibrant neighbourhoods.
### Closing Reflections
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s diverse accommodation options, cultural spots, or unmatched convenience, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s vibrancy, discover its unique neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy your time in this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)*