**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe might not appear extensive, it has provided me with several important insights about life in this lively and multicultural city. London is renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its rich cultural mosaic and vibrant communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared housing, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is simple. Conversely, international students often depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which enable them to examine potential housing options online. These platforms offer information about facilities and proximity to public transportation, simplifying the search process.
### Identifying a Place to Call Home
When I started my quest for housing, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. Living near significant attractions, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was imperative for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To reduce travel costs, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but discounted Oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. For longer journeys, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, though ticket prices vary based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails higher living expenses. To mitigate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably decreased our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is more challenging with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during hectic times like exam season.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing an appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s tapestry of ethnic communities, each providing distinct cultural experiences. Numerous international students lean towards areas that mirror the comfort of their native countries.
– **Southall** in West London serves as a hub for the South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural wealth that London presents.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London varies based on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re navigating the city’s diverse housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or enjoying the ease of its transport networks, London offers something for everyone.
My time living in this extraordinary city has been a fulfilling journey, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what it has to offer.
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*By Guest Blogger*
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/)