**Residing in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my experience of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has provided me with meaningful insights into the life of this dynamic and diverse metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its extensive range of living arrangements but also for the diverse communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. In contrast, international students have access to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding facilities and closeness to public transport, enhancing the search experience.
### Locating Your Ideal Home
As I commenced my quest for accommodation, I was eager to find a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement between zones.
To curtail travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily; however, the Oyster card options substantially lessen commuting costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, traversing areas outside of Central London. Nevertheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of train operators.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but the living costs are steep. To control expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that can be more challenging to discover in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while cost-effective choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops and pharmacies saves time, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Community
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vast diversity. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural character, presenting distinctive neighbourhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian presence, with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas give international students a sense of familiarity and ties to their home countries.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, closeness to your university, or access to essential services, London has much to offer everyone.
As you pursue a place to call home, take time to navigate the city’s diverse housing options and neighbourhoods. Celebrate the richness of London’s cultural landscape, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city presents.
*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/)