**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my experience of living in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has provided ample time to understand and adjust to life in one of the globe’s most vibrant cities. London is renowned not only for its lively culture and iconic sights but also for its varied housing options and flourishing communities. The city is filled with a wealth of choices for students, encompassing everything from student accommodations to private rentals. These options range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, as well as studio apartments and house shares.
For students from the UK, scheduling viewings for apartments is quite straightforward. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse housing options online. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, proximity to public transport, and other vital information, simplifying the relocation process for newcomers from overseas.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for living arrangements, my primary focus was on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. The city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
Nonetheless, transportation expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, an Oyster card became a financially wise choice. Moreover, options such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. Fare prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the operating companies.
Living in Central London offers several benefits, but it also entails higher living costs. To control expenses, I resolved to share a room with a friend who was also studying at university. This arrangement notably lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private housing may not provide.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was an essential requirement. Some prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are favored options. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly practical, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Perfect Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be an overwhelming endeavor, given the city’s breadth and diversity. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in shaping its cultural identity, presenting a rich mix of traditions and culinary delights. Many international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that resonate with the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is celebrated for its vibrant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and spirited music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the cultural richness that London has to offer.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are drawn to the city’s cultural enclaves, its accessible transportation connections, or its diverse housing possibilities, London has something to cater to everyone. For those on the hunt for a new home in this extraordinary city, my suggestion is to embrace its diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and maximize the opportunities available.
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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/)*