**Residing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Although nine months might appear brief, I have gained much insight during this time. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its multitude of housing options but also by the rich diversity of the communities that inhabit it. For those studying here, there is an abundance of housing alternatives right at their fingertips. Whether opting for student residences or private accommodations, the choices span ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange for apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible housing online, examine the facilities, and evaluate their nearness to public transport.
While searching for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be close to the city’s primary landmarks, social centers, and naturally, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. The city has an outstanding public transport network, encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across the zones. I specifically wanted to reduce my travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or Tube. However, having an Oyster card has rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and each train operator’s particular fare structure.
Living in Central London offers the advantage of being near major attractions, but it also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which drastically lowered our rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, as it would allow me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a mix that would be more difficult to find in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was an essential factor. Some of the prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is an incredible time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in the city’s cultural identity, offering a wide array of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas reminiscent of home. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of the many community-oriented neighborhoods within the city.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London varies based on your personal preferences and necessities. When seeking a new home in this city, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy 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/)