**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Contemplation**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of residing in London. While this period might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient for me to acquire several meaningful insights about this lively city. London is recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich cultural communities that live within it. For students, the city presents an abundance of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private residences, including options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared housing.
For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential living spaces online. These platforms offer information regarding amenities and nearness to public transport, enhancing the process for those arriving from overseas.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my quest for a residence, my concentration was on securing a room in Central London. Residing near significant attractions, social areas, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport network—including the Underground (generally known as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates navigation among these zones.
Nonetheless, transport expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, inter-zonal travel could amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For lengthier commutes, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly choice. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Dwelling in Central London brings advantages but also considerable living expenses. To alleviate costs, I opted to share a room with a fellow student who was also enrolled in university. This arrangement greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that is less prevalent in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was vital. 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 present. Being in proximity to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies is tremendously convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can prove to be a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural identity, offering a rich palette of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards locations that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural richness that London provides.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
The best area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s vast array of accommodation options, immersing yourself in its cultural hubs, or relishing the ease of its superb transport links, London holds something for everyone.
Experiencing life in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding journey, and I am eager to uncover more about its distinctive essence in the months ahead.
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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/)*