**Residing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my time in London. Though it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights during this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, showcasing not just a plethora of housing selections but also a rich tapestry of communities. Students in this city have plenty of options when it comes to accommodations. Both student-centered and private housing provides a range of choices, comprising ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, examine available amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, my main focus was to secure a room in Central London. I desired proximity to the city’s key sites, social venues, and, naturally, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts a superb transportation network, with the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains facilitating easy travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize my travel costs, as cross-zone travel can escalate to £5.25 daily. To save on expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has rendered commuting to university significantly more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube, reaching regions outside of Central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages, though it similarly entails elevated living expenses due to its closeness to popular attractions. Fortunately, I managed to share a room with a fellow student, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred the intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is often less accessible in private rentals.
A significant priority for me was living near supermarkets. The most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being adjacent to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to the city’s cultural fabric, presenting a rich mix of neighborhoods. Many international students seek areas where they can find familiarity. For example, Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, brimming with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub teeming with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of the many community-focused neighborhoods throughout London.
In the end, the most fitting area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new home in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, uncover the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
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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/)*