**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear as an extended duration, it has been sufficient for me to gain substantial insights about this lively and evolving city. London is celebrated not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for the vibrant cultural communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, ranging from student halls to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is relatively simple, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible housing options online. These websites offer information about facilities, access to public transport, and other key attributes, making the process more convenient for those relocating from abroad.
### Locating My Place in Central London
As I initiated my search for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city offers an outstanding transportation network, including the Underground (popularly known as the Tube), buses, and trains, making movement between zones quite manageable.
However, traveling between zones can be expensive, potentially costing up to £5.25 daily. To cut down on transport expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that using the Oyster card was an economical choice. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside of central London. Although fares for these services differ based on distance and provider, they offer essential connectivity for those residing further away.
Living in Central London comes at a cost—housing expenses are notably higher. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups. Finding such a social atmosphere would have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was imperative. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also commonly found. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, can greatly save time, especially during hectic periods like exam seasons.
### Discovering London’s Cultural Districts
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can prove to be a daunting task. The city’s rich cultural diversity is evident in its numerous ethnic communities, which contribute vibrancy and character to various areas. For international students, these neighbourhoods often provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community, featuring a multitude of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the many cultural enclaves that render London such a distinct and welcoming city.
### Concluding Thoughts
The most suitable area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and necessities. Whether you emphasize proximity to your university, budget, or cultural relatability, London provides a diverse array of options catering to everyone. Embrace the city’s rich cultural fabric, explore its various neighbourhoods, and maximize the convenience and thrill that residing in London has in store.
—
*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/)*