**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity to glean some important insights about living in this dynamic city. London is not just recognized for its varied housing options but also for the diverse array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of accommodation choices, encompassing everything from student lodging to private rentals, with alternatives including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to peruse online listings, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport. These resources simplify the search for accommodation greatly, even from a distance.
### Locating the Ideal Living Space
When I initiated my search for a room, my focus was on Central London. I desired to remain near key attractions, social gatherings, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transport infrastructure—including the Underground (popularly termed the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between the zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 daily, but options like the Oyster card aid in cutting down on commuting costs for students. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, servicing areas outside Central London. However, fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London brings the advantage of proximity to significant attractions while also resulting in higher living expenses. To mitigate this, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as I sought to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is tougher to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
One of my main considerations was living near grocery stores. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic times like the exam season.
### Discovering London’s Rich Neighbourhoods
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, as the city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural ambiance. Many international students are drawn to areas that convey a comforting sense of familiarity.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the meantime, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling environment complete with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a few of the cultural enclaves that render London exceptionally distinctive.
### Concluding Thoughts
The most suitable area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse accommodation options, its rich cultural neighbourhoods, or the convenience of living close to essential services, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s multiculturalism, explore its lively communities, and relish the thrill of life 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/)*