**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient for me to glean some important insights about life in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a variety of cultures and communities but also a range of housing options. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city provides numerous living choices, from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private accommodations, studio flats, and communal housing.
For students, securing accommodation is relatively simple. Home students can readily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate options online. These websites offer information regarding amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial details.
### Searching for a Home
When I initiated my quest for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation among the zones.
Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card considerably lowered travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, providing more travel alternatives, although fares vary based on distance and the specific train service.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, but it also carries a significant price. To reduce expenses, a friend and I opted to share a room, which aided in saving on rent. I also chose to live in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination often harder to find in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a major consideration. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops and pharmacies nearby is particularly useful during hectic times like exam periods, as it streamlines errands.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s vast scope and diversity. The ethnic communities of London significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighbourhoods to discover.
For example, Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, showcases Afro-Caribbean culture and a lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London presents numerous Chinese eateries, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of connection for international students seeking familiarity with their cultural roots.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central hotspots, London provides a plethora of accommodation choices tailored to every lifestyle. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore the neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.
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*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/)*