**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, this period has been sufficient to gather significant insights about living in this lively city. London stands as not only a center for a variety of accommodation options but also as a melting pot of cultures from around the world. For students, the city presents a wealth of choices, from student residences to private lodgings, including options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is fairly straightforward. On the other hand, international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online. These sites supply details on amenities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Securing Accommodation
As I initiated my accommodation hunt, my attention was on securing a room in Central London. Being near major sights, social areas, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two serving as the most central. The city’s vast transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones.
To reduce travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. Daily inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25, but employing an Oyster card greatly cuts down commuting costs. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, linking areas outside central London. However, costs for these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of the train operators.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages but also increased living expenses. To keep rent affordable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which turned out to be a budget-friendly alternative. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that might be less present in private housing.
### Accessibility to Necessities
Living in proximity to grocery stores was an important factor for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, including pharmacies, is extremely convenient, particularly during busy times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London add to its allure, featuring a wide array of cultural experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate toward neighborhoods that evoke memories of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a handful of London’s cultural enclaves.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal location to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal desires and priorities. Whether you’re attracted by the city’s diverse housing options, its rich culture, or its convenience, London has something to provide for everyone. For those beginning their own quest to find accommodation in this remarkable city, embrace the diversity, explore the cultural neighborhoods, and fully experience the excitement that London has to offer.
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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/)*