**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Review**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire significant perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the diverse array of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a wealth of housing options, from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential lodgings online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial information, enhancing the search experience.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, lively areas, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. The city’s remarkable transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I preferred walking short distances rather than depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but employing an Oyster card considerably lowers commuting costs. For longer journeys, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, though fares differ based on distance and the service provider.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. To manage expenditures, my friend and I opted to share a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which provided a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience less likely with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
Being located near grocery stores was crucial for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students keen on budgeting. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly helpful during bustling times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a variety of traditions and lifestyles.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End is an active center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Discovering Your Perfect Location
Ultimately, the best locality to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural abundance, efficient transport links, or lively communities, London has something for everyone.
As you pursue a place to call home, embrace the diversity and possibilities that this extraordinary city has to offer. Explore its neighbourhoods, immerse yourself in its culture, and maximize your experience in one of the most exhilarating cities globally.
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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/)*