**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of living in London. Although this timeframe may not appear extensive, it has been ample for me to accumulate some significant observations about existence in this dynamic city. London is not only a center of various housing options but also a cultural melting pot of communities from across the globe. For students, the city presents a myriad of housing alternatives, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally quite easy. However, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for accommodations online. These sites provide comprehensive information regarding amenities and their closeness to public transportation, enhancing the search experience for those unfamiliar with the city.
### My Search for Accommodation
As I began my quest, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to major sights, social locations, and Imperial College’s campus was crucial for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s vast transportation network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, but economical options like Oyster cards have made commuting more budget-friendly for students. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, though ticket prices differ based on distance and the provider.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but it also comes with steep living costs. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided an opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that is harder to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
One of my primary considerations was living near grocery stores. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to essential stores not only saves time but also proves invaluable during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural richness, creating vibrant enclaves that cater to varied tastes and preferences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that provide a sense of comfort.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End showcases a bustling range of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify London’s multicultural fabric.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing choices, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of living near vital amenities, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the richness of its neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this extraordinary city.
—
*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/)*