**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 this timeframe might not appear extensive, it has allowed me to fully engage with the city’s lively culture and acquire several important insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not solely due to its varied accommodation choices but also because of the diverse blend of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of living options, from student accommodations to private leases. Choices include ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio apartments, and house sharing.
For local students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is quite simple. Nonetheless, international students can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover lodgings online. These websites offer information on amenities, proximity to public transportation, and other vital details, streamlining the process for those arriving from overseas.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
As I initiated my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transit system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commutes between zones.
That being said, travel expenses can accumulate quickly. For example, inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, an Oyster card can greatly minimize travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, linking areas outside central London. However, fares for these services depend on both distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also comes with high living expenses. To manage my finances, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also in university. This decision allowed us to significantly reduce our rent payments. Additionally, I picked intercollegiate student accommodation, as it presented an opportunity to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a feat that would have been more challenging in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most frequented supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are outstanding alternatives. Living in close proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Various Neighbourhoods
Determining the right neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural identity, providing a wealth of experiences. Numerous international students lean toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London hosts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown**, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
These are merely a handful of examples showcasing the diverse neighbourhoods that render London such a distinctive and inviting city.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the hunt for new accommodation or simply discovering the city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options. Dedicate time to explore its cultural enclaves and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.
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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/)*