**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Appraisal**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I relocated to London—though a brief span, it’s been sufficient to grasp several aspects of this lively metropolis. London is renowned not just for its varied housing selections but also for the dynamic communities that thrive here. For students, the city presents an abundance of options, ranging from student dormitories to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and shared facilities, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently organize physical viewings of apartments, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
When I started my quest for accommodation, my aim was to secure a room in Central London. Residing near key attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is classified into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transport infrastructure—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting. Nevertheless, travel expenses can quickly accumulate, with inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently walked shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For lengthier commutes, the Oyster card system considerably lowers travel costs for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, with fares varying based on distance and the operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To alleviate costs, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to save notably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a combination that’s less common in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial criterion for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students with restrained budgets. Being near essential stores and pharmacies proves particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exam weeks.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be challenging. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, each presenting a distinctive experience. Numerous international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its extensive South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These communities are just a few illustrations of London’s cultural hotspots.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing choices, its cultural richness, or its practicality, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home and savor the thrill of living in this extraordinary city.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)