### My Journey of Residing in London: Nine Months In
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated the milestone of nine months living in London. While nine months might not appear lengthy, it has provided me with ample opportunity to discover a great deal about this lively and ever-changing city. London offers a wealth of diversity not only in housing alternatives but also in the various communities that it accommodates. Students, in particular, have an extensive array of options available to them. From student housing to private rentals, choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is hassle-free, while international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and gauge closeness to public transportation.
As I initiated my search for accommodation, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near prominent attractions, social areas, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is classified into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances to conserve funds. For longer trips, an Oyster card markedly decreases travel expenses for students. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services link regions outside the central zones, although ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Living in Central London brings certain advantages, though it also results in elevated living expenses. To minimize rent, I opted to cohabit with a friend who was also enrolled at university. This setup was beneficial for both of us and allowed us to significantly reduce our costs. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodation, as I was eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination often harder to find in private rentals.
Another essential factor for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Some of the most widely known supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for budgeting. Living close to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies proves incredibly convenient, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the optimal neighbourhood for living can be daunting, given London’s enormity and diversity. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich mix of traditions and cuisines. Many international students tend to flock to neighbourhoods that resonate with their native cultures. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End, serves as a lively centre of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few of the cultural hubs that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In conclusion, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing selections, its rich cultural spheres, or its convenience and vibrancy, London offers something for everyone. My recommendation? Embrace the variety, discover the neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy the wonders of this remarkable city.
—
*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/)*