**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and although that may appear to be a brief period, it has provided me the opportunity to discover several aspects of this lively metropolis. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for its rich, multicultural communities. Particularly for students, there is a broad selection of housing choices available, from student accommodations to private rentals. These alternatives encompass ensuites and shared facilities, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. Conversely, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to research potential housing options online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, transport links, and other vital information.
### Securing Accommodation in London
When I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My intention was to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—which includes the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transit. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day, so reducing these costs was essential. That said, Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Tube network, serving parts outside of central London. Nevertheless, ticket prices for these services vary based on the distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Living in Central London offers certain advantages but also presents challenges, particularly with its elevated cost of living. To control my expenses, I elected to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This arrangement enabled us to considerably reduce our rental costs. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations because I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a mix less likely to be found in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
One of my primary concerns was securing a residence near grocery stores. London boasts a variety of supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being in proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic times, such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s expansiveness and diversity. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of experiences. Many international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a thriving center filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s cultural enclaves.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural diversity, or its convenience, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home in this extraordinary city, and make the most of the unique experiences available.
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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/)*