**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a particularly long duration, it has been sufficient to absorb and engage with the lively atmosphere this metropolis presents. London serves as more than just a center for varied housing alternatives; it is a melting pot of cultures from across the globe. Students benefit from a plethora of housing selections, from university accommodations to private rentals. These alternatives encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared homes. While domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate convenience to public transportation.
As I launched my search for a living space, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near significant landmarks, social centers, and most importantly, the Imperial College campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement through the zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25. To economize on travel costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For extended journeys, the Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly option. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside of central London. While fares for these services can vary, they provide a wider range for those residing farther away.
However, living in Central London comes with a high price tag. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which substantially decreased our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student lodgings since they offered a chance to engage with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that can be more challenging in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery shops was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to minimize expenses. Residing close to essential stores and pharmacies has been a great convenience, particularly during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is no simple feat. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its dynamic Afro-Caribbean culture and music vibe. In the meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural wealth London has to present.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges upon your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing opportunities, its cultural districts, or its unmatched convenience, London is a place that has something for everybody. Embrace the journey, discover its numerous dimensions, and relish the thrill of living in this extraordinary metropolis.
*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/)*