**Residing in London: Musings on Nine Months in the Metropolis**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has sufficed to acquire some meaningful perspectives on existence in this lively and multifaceted city. London is famed not only for its rich heritage and artistic culture but also for its diverse housing alternatives and vibrant communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student accommodations to independent rentals, including ensuite or shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is uncomplicated, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually browse living arrangements. These resources offer information about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital characteristics, simplifying the search process for those arriving from overseas.
### Locating a Home
As I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transit system, consisting of the Underground (commonly called the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates travel across the zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 per day—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that utilizing an Oyster card considerably decreased travel costs. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing broader access. However, fares for these services can fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also entails elevated living expenses. To keep costs in check, I made the decision to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement not only aided us in reducing rent but also enhanced the overall experience. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic less prevalent in private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being in proximity to grocery stores was a crucial factor. Some of the predominant supermarket chains in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also readily found. Living near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies turned out to be extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Districts
Selecting the appropriate area to reside can be an overwhelming task, considering London’s vastness and variety. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of experiences. Numerous international students are drawn to locales that mirror the familiarity of their native countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Discovering Your Perfect Location
The ideal area to call home in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize closeness to your university, cultural resonance, or financial feasibility, London caters to diverse needs. My recommendation for anyone on the lookout for a residence in this city is to welcome its diversity, delve into its rich cultural neighborhoods, and maximize the convenience and excitement that London provides.
—
*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/)*