**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Though this may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to glean some significant observations about life in this lively and diverse metropolis. London stands not merely as a center of cultural and historical sites but also as a fusion of communities and living arrangements that address a wide array of requirements. Students, especially, benefit from different housing options, such as ensuite rooms, communal living, studio flats, and shared houses. For those studying locally, securing viewings for apartments is typically uncomplicated, while international students can depend on resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential lodgings online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport links.
### Securing Accommodations
As I initiated my search, my preference was to locate a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating ease of travel between these zones. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card was a budget-friendly option.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch to locations outside the central zones, providing broader accessibility. Nevertheless, the fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of various train operators.
Residing in Central London certainly has its advantages but also comes with steep living costs. To alleviate this, I made the choice to share a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rental burden. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that private rentals might not facilitate as easily.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores within reach was crucial. The most popular supermarkets in London comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those wishing to keep costs down. Being near vital stores, like supermarkets and pharmacies, turned out to be a significant time-saver, particularly during exam periods when every moment is valuable.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing the right place to live in London can be daunting, considering the city’s immense size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London reflect its rich cultural tapestry, showcasing a variety of neighbourhoods that appeal to diverse tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a vibrant area brimming with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods provide international students with a sense of connection and community to their cultural heritage.
### Concluding Thoughts
The most suitable area to live in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you prefer the convenience of Central London, the cultural richness of its various neighbourhoods, or the affordability found in outer areas, the city has something for everyone.
As you pursue a place to call home in London, embrace the variety of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this incredible 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/)*