**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I initiated my experience of living in London. Though this timeframe might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is recognized not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its culturally rich communities. Specifically for students, there exists a multitude of housing alternatives, ranging from student halls to personal rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential lodging options online. These resources offer information regarding facilities and proximity to public transport, simplifying the process for newcomers from abroad.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
When I commenced my accommodation search, I emphasized securing a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential to me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Travel between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, but options like the Oyster card make commuting more economical for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, providing further coverage for those residing in outer zones.
Nonetheless, residing in Central London carries a hefty cost. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as it presented an opportunity to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something more challenging to attain through private rental agreements.
### Closeness to Necessities
Being near grocery stores was a key concern for me. Common supermarket brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more cost-effective choices. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam time.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite overwhelming, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its character, contributing to numerous vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are just a few instances of the cultural enclaves that make London distinctive.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and preferences. Whether you’re navigating the city’s diverse housing options, diving into its cultural enclaves, or taking advantage of its transportation system, London holds something for everyone.
Experiencing this extraordinary city has been a fulfilling journey, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what it has in store.
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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/)