**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London, and although that timeframe may seem short, it has been sufficient to acquire essential knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London serves not only as a center for varied housing alternatives but also as an amalgamation of communities from across the globe. For students, the city presents a wide range of options, from student residences to private living spaces, including ensuite rooms, communal areas, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively uncomplicated, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to inspect potential homes online. These platforms offer information about facilities and distance to public transport, streamlining the searching process.
At the onset of my search, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central locations. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement among these zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To conserve travel funds, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than resorting to public transport. For lengthier commutes, the Oyster card considerably diminishes travel expenses for students.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure of the operating company. However, residing in Central London entails a substantial cost. To manage expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near key stores, including pharmacies, proves especially handy during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Numerous international students gravitate toward neighborhoods that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, stands as a vibrant center for Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are only a few instances of the city’s cultural districts.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are investigating the city’s varied accommodation choices, diving into its cultural communities, or relishing its convenience and vibrancy, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity of this extraordinary city and make the most of your experience here.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*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/)*