**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London showcases a wide array of accommodation choices as well as diverse communities that make it their home. For students, the city presents numerous options, ranging from student lodgings to private residences, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, while international students can take advantage of resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential places to live online. These platforms offer information on amenities and distance to public transportation, simplifying the search for those unacquainted with the city.
### Locating a Place to Live
As I commenced my hunt for a room, I targeted Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To keep travel expenses low, I favored walking shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can incur fees of up to £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card options help make commuting more economical for students. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, though prices fluctuate based on distance and train company.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To control costs, I shared accommodation with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages—an experience not easily found in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, particularly during exam times, conserves time and streamlines daily tasks.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor, as the city’s diverse communities enhance its vibrant cultural landscape. Numerous international students gravitate toward locations that provide a feeling of familiarity. For instance:
– **Southall (West London):** Renowned for its lively South Asian community, Southall features Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton (South London):** Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage, Brixton is home to a vibrant music scene and a strong community spirit.
– **Chinatown (West End):** A bustling center of Chinese culture, Chinatown offers a plethora of restaurants, stores, and cultural activities.
These areas are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that render London distinctive.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London relies on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diversity, its cultural landmarks, or its efficient transport links, London provides something for everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new home, relish the variety within its accommodation setups, explore its lively neighborhoods, and savor the thrill of this extraordinary city.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*