**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated the completion of nine months residing in London. Although it might appear to be a brief period, it has provided me with several significant insights about this lively and ever-evolving city. London is recognized not only for its wide array of housing options but also for the diverse communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a vast selection of living arrangements, from dedicated student housing to individual rentals, comprising ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate possible housing options online. These platforms furnish information regarding amenities, access to public transport, and other crucial details, simplifying the search considerably.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my quest for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to primary attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement across zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which could escalate to £5.25 per day for moving between zones, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making transportation more economical for students. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, though ticket prices vary based on the distance and train company.
Being in Central London comes at a considerable cost, so I opted to share accommodation with a friend to markedly reduce rent. I also decided to reside in intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private rentals might not provide.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Living in proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students with limited finances. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely beneficial, particularly during hectic times like examinations.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward neighborhoods that reflect the comfort of their home environments.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and musical culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a busy enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the myriad cultural hubs that London presents.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London ultimately varies based on individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re delving into the city’s diverse housing options, immersing in its cultural neighborhoods, or enjoying the convenience of its top-notch transportation system, London caters to everyone. Embrace the diversity, richness, and excitement of this extraordinary city—it promises an unmatched experience.
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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/)*