**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has provided me with invaluable perspectives on life in this dynamic and multicultural city. London is famous not just for its deep-rooted history and cultural sites but also for its myriad of housing alternatives and flourishing communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate possible housing online. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, distance to public transport, and other vital information, facilitating advance planning.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
As I began my accommodation hunt, my goal was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major sites, social areas, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. The outstanding transportation system in the city—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—makes commuting between zones manageable.
To reduce travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day, but using an Oyster card greatly cuts commuting costs for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach regions beyond the central zones, providing further travel choices. Nonetheless, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare system in place.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steeper living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which enabled us to significantly lower our rent. I also opted to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as this allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, living near supermarkets was a primary concern. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam seasons, saving both time and effort when running errands.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be challenging due to the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are a key aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of experiences. Many international students are drawn to areas that echo the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London offers a vibrant cluster of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into the city’s multicultural essence.
### Making the Most of London
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and necessities. Whether your interests lean towards cultural hotspots, the convenience of central locations, or the affordability of outer zones, London has something to cater to everyone.
As you seek your new abode in this extraordinary city, embrace the diversity and explore the numerous housing options available. Living in London isn’t just about securing a residence—it’s about diving into the energy, culture, and opportunities that render this city truly special.
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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/)*