**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear as an extended period, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful reflections on life in this lively and ever-changing city. London is famous not just for its variety of housing options but also for the rich assortment of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, featuring choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students living in the UK, arranging an apartment viewing is relatively simple. In contrast, international students can count on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to look at available properties online, examine the amenities provided, and evaluate accessibility to public transport connections.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
While on the hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transit system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between these zones.
To minimize travel expenses—since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily—I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than taking public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card was a budget-friendly alternative. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. However, the fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the train company.
Residing in Central London brings the advantage of proximity to major attractions but also comes with increased living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a friend, leading to a significant reduction in our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to meet fellow students from various backgrounds and of similar ages—a combination that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
Having grocery stores nearby was a crucial consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while cost-effective choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam season.
### Selecting the Appropriate Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s immense cultural diversity. London’s various ethnic communities are essential to its character, presenting a range of lively neighborhoods that embody its multicultural essence.
For instance, Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that evoke memories of home, seeking familiarity in a new environment. These community centers offer not only a sense of belonging but also access to cultural experiences and cuisines from around the globe.
### Fully Engaging in the London Experience
Ultimately, determining the best place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural richness of specific areas or the convenience of central locations, London caters to all preferences.
As you embark on your search for a new home in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to explore its various housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the unique combination of convenience and excitement that London provides.
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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/)