**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of living in London. Although that might not appear to be an extended period, it has provided me with significant observations about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied accommodation options but also for the rich and diverse communities that inhabit it. In particular, students have a wide array of housing choices, from student lodgings to private rentals. These include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple, while international students can take advantage of online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential housing options. These platforms offer information regarding amenities and proximity to public transit, facilitating the process for those new to the city.
### Securing a Place to Live
When I initiated my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. Being near major attractions, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s vast transportation system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—enables easy movement across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for trips between zones, I preferred walking shorter distances over using public transit. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, proving to be a budget-friendly choice for students. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with fares differing according to distance and the specific operator.
However, residing in Central London entails a steep price. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic less common in private rentals.
### Access to Necessities
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to save money. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during busy times, such as exam periods, when every moment counts.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighborhoods
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting due to London’s immense size and diversity. The various ethnic communities significantly contribute to the city’s cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of experiences. Numerous international students find themselves in neighborhoods that evoke a sense of familiarity from their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End provides a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few examples of the cultural vibrancy London offers.
### Concluding Reflections
The best location to reside in London ultimately hinges on individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its central landmarks, London presents an abundance of accommodation choices to match every lifestyle. Embrace the variety, explore the neighborhoods, and dive into the thrill of this exceptional city—it’s an experience unlike any other.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*