**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Though this may appear as a brief period, it has provided me with significant experiences regarding life in this dynamic city. London is not only recognized for its varied housing options but also for the rich diversity of communities that make it their home. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, spanning from student lodgings to private rentals, including options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online. These platforms are beneficial in supplying information about amenities and proximity to public transportation, facilitating a smoother process.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, my emphasis was on locating a room in Central London. Living centrally allowed easy access to major attractions, social centers, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies traveling between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, which could amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For more extended commutes, an Oyster card was extremely useful, providing cheaper travel alternatives. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to reach areas outside Central London. However, fares for these services can vary based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with enhanced living costs. To keep expenses in check, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience harder to enjoy in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a key consideration. London provides an array of supermarkets, with popular choices such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores and pharmacies nearby is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic times such as exam seasons.
### Picking the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, considering the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities form a significant aspect of its cultural landscape, providing distinctive neighbourhoods that signify the city’s multicultural character.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the center of London’s West End presents a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations.
Many international students lean towards neighbourhoods that evoke a sense of familiarity, seeking connections to their heritage while discovering life in a new city.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you emphasize closeness to your university, cultural hotspots, or cost-efficiency, London has something to offer everyone.
As you embark on the search for a new residence in this remarkable city, invest time in exploring its varied housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural wealth, and relish the convenience and excitement that London has to share.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*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/)*