**Residing in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I initiated my adventure of living in London. Although this timeframe might not appear extensive, it has been filled with invaluable lessons and fresh insights. London showcases a bustling and varied atmosphere, not just regarding its living arrangements but also within its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices for accommodation, ranging from student housing to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling viewings is a breeze, while international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, check facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
At the outset of my quest for a residence, I was determined to secure a room in Central London. My aim was to be near major landmarks, social venues, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The wonderful public transport infrastructure—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these zones easily. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares totaling up to £5.25. To economize on travel, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card turned out to be an economical choice. Apart from the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although ticket prices vary based on the distance traveled and the pricing policies of different train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails substantial living expenses. To keep costs manageable, my friend and I opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred staying in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that private rentals might not provide as readily.
Being close to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living nearby essential stores, including pharmacies, was incredibly beneficial, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s abundant cultural diversity is showcased in its ethnic communities, each providing a distinctive experience. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural hubs that contribute to London’s allure.
In the end, the ideal place to call home in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and priorities. Whether your interest lies in the city’s wide-ranging housing alternatives, its cultural vibrancy, or the ease of its transport links, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home, and relish the excitement and possibilities this extraordinary city has to offer.
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*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/)*