**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure of living in London. Although this timeframe might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire valuable perspectives about life in this lively metropolis. London is not only renowned for its famous landmarks and rich heritage but also for its varied communities and extensive selection of housing options. Whether you are a student or a professional, the city presents an assortment of living arrangements, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students, locating appropriate accommodation is facilitated by numerous platforms. Domestic students can book in-person apartment viewings, while international students can browse options online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms deliver comprehensive details about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial information, making the search process more manageable.
### Locating Your New Home
When I started my search, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb public transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies travel between zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, with inter-zonal travel costing up to £5.25 per day. To economize, I often chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly option.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services expand the city’s transport network to regions outside the central zones. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of the operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living costs. To keep expenses in check, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lessened our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that private housing often lacks.
### Close to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. London boasts several supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also widely available. Being near important stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely convenient, especially during high-pressure periods like exam season.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, offering vibrant and distinct neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that echo the culture of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and spirited music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few examples of the cultural richness that London has to offer.
### Concluding Reflections
The ideal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its contemporary conveniences, London provides a plethora of options to discover. Embrace the diversity, immerse yourself in the city’s extraordinary neighborhoods, and take full advantage of this remarkable place.
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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/)*