**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my experience of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather insightful perspectives on life in this lively, ever-evolving city. London is renowned not just for its varied accommodation selections but also for the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging viewings is generally quite easy, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to seek out homes online. These sites offer extensive information on amenities and closeness to public transport, making the search process simpler for newcomers.
### Securing a Place to Live
When I initiated my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. Being near major landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was important to me. London is segmented into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to stroll short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal transit can incur costs of up to £5.25 per day, but the Oyster card provides reduced fare options, especially advantageous for university travels. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground system, reaching further zones. However, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London entails steep living costs, but I managed to cut down on rent by sharing a room with a fellow student. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—an experience that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students on a budget. Being near vital stores, including pharmacies, proves especially beneficial during hectic times like exam seasons, saving both time and effort.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a place to live in London can be daunting, given the immense diversity of its neighbourhoods. The city’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural essence, offering a wealth of unique experiences.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
Many international students tend to gravitate towards neighbourhoods that evoke a sense of home, seeking comfort and familiarity in a novel environment.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and necessities. Whether you’re exploring the city’s varied accommodation choices, immersing yourself in cultural districts, or relishing the advantages of London’s superb transport links, there’s something for everyone in this extraordinary city.
Living in London has proven to be a rewarding journey, and I am eager to uncover even more about this remarkable place in the months ahead.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*