**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my adventure of residing in London. While this duration might not appear lengthy, it has been sufficient for me to acquire insightful experiences about life in this bustling city. London is more than just a city; it’s a fusion of cultures, communities, and endless possibilities. With a variety of accommodation types and its rich cultural neighborhoods, the city presents something for everyone—particularly students.
### Searching for Housing in London
London offers a multitude of housing solutions, accommodating various preferences and financial plans. Students can select from university residences or private lodgings, including options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is simple, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These platforms offer information about facilities and proximity to public transport, streamlining the search process significantly.
When I initiated my search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—allows for easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transit. For longer journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly lowered travel expenses.
For those venturing beyond the Underground system, the London Overground and National Rail services reach the outer zones. Nonetheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. I also decided to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an atmosphere that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely convenient, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the best neighborhood in London can be a formidable challenge, considering the city’s expanse and diversity. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural depth, presenting a variety of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent merely a fraction of the city’s cultural mosaic.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal needs and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural districts, closeness to your educational institution, or availability of essential services, London has something to offer everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new residence in this extraordinary city, embrace its diversity, discover its neighborhoods, and make the most of the convenience and vibrancy it provides.
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*By Guest Blogger*
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/)