**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, it has been sufficient to grasp several important lessons about life in this dynamic metropolis. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the diverse array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing is simple, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible living options online. These platforms offer insights into amenities and proximity to public transport, simplifying the search process.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
In my search, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social areas, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s remarkable transport network, encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy commuting. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs peaking at £5.25. To economize on travel expenses, I typically opted to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making it a cost-effective choice for students.
Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend outward from the central zones, covering a broader area. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also entails elevated living costs. To mitigate expenses, I made the decision to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to those trying to manage their budgets. Proximity to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proves particularly advantageous during hectic times, like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive nature and diversity. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, showcasing a range of unique neighbourhoods.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling environment with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of connection for international students looking to link with their cultural roots.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal inclinations and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, the advantages of central locations, or the cost-effectiveness of outer zones, London caters to various preferences.
As you navigate your search for a new home in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to delve into its diverse accommodation offerings, immerse yourself in its rich cultural landscape, and relish the vibrancy of life in London.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*