**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to gain extensive insights about this lively city. London is recognized not just for its varied housing selections but also for the rich mosaic of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, including student accommodations and private rentals, with choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly easy. However, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities, closeness to public transportation, and other crucial factors, simplifying the search process.
### Locating a Space to Call Home
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Being situated near key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To cut down on travel costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport.
For students, an Oyster card serves as an excellent means to make commuting more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also comes with high living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. I went for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided an opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that private rentals might not facilitate.
### Convenience is Essential
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was a critical requirement. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely located, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops and pharmacies nearby is extremely handy, especially during hectic times like exam seasons.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a tough choice. The city’s ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural persona, presenting numerous unique neighbourhoods waiting to be discovered. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke feelings of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End boasts a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few examples of the cultural richness that London provides.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and necessities. Whether you are exploring the city’s varied accommodation opportunities, immersing yourself in its cultural hotspots, or taking pleasure in the convenience of its world-class transport system, London has something for everyone.
Living in this remarkable city has been a rewarding experience, and I anticipate discovering even more of what London has in store.
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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/)*