**Residing in London: A Journey of Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not seem particularly lengthy, it has provided me with ample opportunities to discover a wealth of knowledge about this dynamic and eclectic city. London serves not only as a center for cultural and social activities but also presents a plethora of housing choices catering to various needs and tastes. From student accommodations to private leases, there is something available for everyone—whether you’re in search of ensuite rooms, shared living arrangements, studio flats, or house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings for apartments is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to find potential living spaces online. These sites offer comprehensive information regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other key details, simplifying the search process significantly.
### Locating My Spot in Central London
When I initiated my search, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to reside near significant landmarks, social centers, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transit system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I decided to walk short distances instead of relying solely on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly alternative. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground framework, catering to outer zones with varied fare systems depending on the distance and train service provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails increased living expenses. To handle our financial responsibilities, my friend and I opted to share a room, which greatly lessened our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing since I wanted to connect with peers from a range of backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private accommodations might not have provided.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a significant priority. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also easily accessible. Being near vital stores and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, particularly during hectic periods like exam time.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London is a challenging task, given the city’s vibrant cultural diversity that presents countless options. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that echo the comfort of their home nations.
– **Southall** in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural wealth that London provides.
### Embracing the London Experience
In the end, the best area to call home in London hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenience, or its lively social landscape, London has something for everyone. My suggestion to anyone on the lookout for a residence in this extraordinary city is to embrace its diversity, venture into its unique neighbourhoods, and fully engage with the opportunities it presents.
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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/)*