**Residing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Though it doesn’t appear to be a lengthy duration, I’ve gathered a wealth of experiences in this time. London is a vibrant and multifaceted city, not only regarding its diverse housing options but also in the array of communities that inhabit it. For students, numerous accommodation alternatives are readily available. Whether you’re in the market for student housing or independent living, you’ll encounter choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check out potential homes online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to reside, I concentrated on securing a room for rent in Central London. My goal was to stay near the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and of course, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or Tube. Nevertheless, utilizing an Oyster card has rendered my commute to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. The fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure implemented by each train operator.
Residing in Central London undeniably comes with a hefty price tag due to its closeness to major sights. Luckily, I was enrolled in university along with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, significantly reducing our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics—something that would have proven more challenging through private rentals.
One of my main considerations was being close to grocery stores. Some of London’s most popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas more cost-effective options feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retail establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies can save a lot of time, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be quite a challenge. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich mix of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, located in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Additionally, Chinatown situated in the heart of London’s West End sets the stage for a bustling array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These serve as just a few illustrations of the many community-centric neighborhoods that thrive in this city.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. When you’re on the lookout for a new home in this city, take the opportunity to discover the diversity and vibrancy of London’s housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural havens, and relish the convenience and thrill 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/)*