**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*

Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire invaluable experiences regarding life in this dynamic city. London serves as a center for diverse housing options and is also a vibrant melting pot of cultures from across the globe. For students, the city presents an abundance of lodging selections, including student residences, private leases, ensuite and shared bathrooms, individual rooms, studio flats, and shared housing.

For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. On the other hand, international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport connections.

### Securing a Place to Live

In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial College’s campus was important to me. London is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city boasts an excellent transportation system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement between zones.

To cut down on transportation expenses, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. Travel between zones can run up to £5.25 per day, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly lowers commuting costs. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing broader coverage. Nonetheless, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare system utilized by the operating company.

Residing in Central London brings its benefits, alongside high living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to save significantly on rent. I opted to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations since I was eager to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that might not have been as readily available with private rentals.

### Accessibility to Essentials

For me, living near supermarkets was a must-have. Well-known grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies saves considerable time, especially during hectic times like exam periods.

### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood

Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s vast cultural diversity manifests in its various ethnic communities, each offering distinct experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home.

– **Southall (West London):** Recognized for its substantial South Asian community, Southall features Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural gatherings.

These are just a few samples of London’s cultural neighborhoods, each providing a sense of familiarity and connection for those searching for it.

### Celebrating London’s Diversity

In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural hotspots, closeness to your university, or budget-friendliness, London accommodates all. Exploring the city’s varied accommodation possibilities, immersing yourself in its cultural vibrancy, and utilizing its exceptional transport system are all part of the London experience.

Living in London is an exciting journey, and each neighbourhood tells its own tale. Embrace the experience and maximize the opportunities that this extraordinary city presents.


*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/)*

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