**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set off on my adventure of living in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has allowed me to collect some meaningful insights about life in this dynamic and multicultural city. London is not merely a center for cultural and historic landmarks but also a blend of communities and housing alternatives that meet diverse demands. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city provides a variety of accommodation types, from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite rooms, communal areas, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple. In contrast, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover possible accommodations online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, access to public transport, and other vital information, streamlining the search experience.
### Locating Your Home
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and most significantly, Imperial College’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s extensive transportation infrastructure, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones.
To cut down on commuting expenses—cross-zone travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily—I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides economical options for students. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside central London, though prices vary based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing because it presented the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also accessible. Having essential shops nearby, including pharmacies, was invaluable, particularly during hectic periods like exam weeks.
### Discovering London’s Diverse Neighbourhoods
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expansive and varied layout. London’s diverse communities are integral to its cultural depth, presenting unique neighbourhoods that cater to assorted tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is iconic for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a busy enclave brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas offer a sense of familiarity and belonging for international students yearning for a connection to their heritage.
### Maximizing Your London Experience
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London is influenced by your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, closeness to your institution, or availability of amenities, London has something suitable for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, journey through its vibrant neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill that accompany living in one of the world’s most lively cities.
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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/)*