**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is widely recognized for its varied housing alternatives as well as its rich and diverse communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing selections, from student accommodations to private rentals. Options are available such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to scrutinize properties, evaluate amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I emphasized locating a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate, with inter-zonal trips costing as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. For lengthier commutes, the Oyster card has been an economical choice. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach locations outside of central London, although fares differ based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also involves higher living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation with the hope of connecting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics—a blend that private housing might lack.
Closeness to grocery stores was another vital aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more budget-conscious options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops and pharmacies has been immensely practical, especially during hectic times like the exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural variety. The ethnic communities of London play an important role in defining its character, presenting a myriad of lively neighborhoods. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods offer international students a sense of familiarity and connection to their native cultures.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on personal tastes and priorities. Whether exploring the city’s diverse housing options, engaging in its cultural enclaves, or enjoying the convenience of its transit links, London holds something for everyone. Embrace the richness and thrill of this extraordinary city as you embark on the search for your new home.
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*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/)*