**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. Though this duration might appear brief, it has been sufficient to collect insightful experiences about life in this dynamic metropolis. London is not only acclaimed for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich and multicultural population. The city presents an abundance of accommodation alternatives for students, ranging from student residences to private leases. Choices encompass ensuite and shared washrooms, private and shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple. In contrast, international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout possible accommodations online. These websites offer comprehensive information regarding amenities, proximity to public transport, and other vital specifics.
### Locating a Home
Throughout my quest for housing, I emphasized securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb public transit system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day, but employing an Oyster card significantly cuts down on commuting costs for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones. However, fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of the train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also carries steep living expenses. To cope with costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, leading to considerable savings on rent. Furthermore, I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a priority. Well-known supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for budget savings. Proximity to essential outlets, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exams.
### Selecting the Perfect Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a variety of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the familiarity of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, serves as a lively center of Chinese culinary establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few representations of the city’s rich cultural fabric.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to call home in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural hubs, or the convenience of its public transport system, London caters to everyone. Embrace the city’s vibrancy, discover its unique neighborhoods, and relish the thrill of making this extraordinary location your home.
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*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/)*