**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of living in London. Although this duration might not appear significant, it has granted me invaluable perspectives on life within this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. Students, especially, find themselves with an abundance of choices regarding accommodation, encompassing everything from student housing to private rentals. Available options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. In contrast, international students often turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential accommodations online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transit, simplifying the search process greatly.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in central London to remain near key landmarks, social areas, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The superb transportation network of the city—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates convenient movement between zones.
To economize on travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but employing an Oyster card greatly diminishes commuting costs. For longer trips, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, although ticket prices vary based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London, however, entails a significant financial commitment. To manage expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that proved more challenging through private rentals.
### Proximity to Essentials
A primary concern for me was living near grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to essential stores and pharmacies was incredibly beneficial, particularly during exam periods when time becomes scarce.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Determining where to reside in London can be daunting, given the city’s enormity and diversity. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural makeup, providing an array of neighborhoods that suit various tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents a lively selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods offer a sense of connection for international students yearning for ties to their cultural roots.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re in search of a new home or merely wandering the city, London’s diverse housing selections and cultural districts guarantee something for everyone.
Living in London has been a fulfilling journey, allowing me to value the convenience, thrill, and cultural dynamism of this extraordinary 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/)