**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Takeaways**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not seem like a significant duration, it has provided me with several important insights into navigating life in this dynamic city. London serves as not only a center of varied housing options but also as a melting pot of cultures from around the globe. For students, there is a wide array of selections, including student accommodations and private living arrangements, such as ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For UK-based students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite manageable. In contrast, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing opportunities online. These sites offer comprehensive information on amenities, distances to public transportation, and other crucial details, simplifying the process for newcomers arriving from overseas.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
When I initiated my search for a place to stay, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to remain near significant attractions, bustling social areas, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the core. The city boasts a superb transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy travel across zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can incur high costs, with daily fares reaching as much as £5.25. To cut expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, making it a favored option among students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with the city center.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, comes with a hefty price. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This partnership greatly diminished our rental expenditures. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing since it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, an experience that private rentals may not easily offer.
### Distance to Necessities
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while budget-friendly retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to minimize expenses. Proximity to vital stores, including pharmacies, proves especially beneficial during hectic times such as exam weeks, when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, considering the city’s rich cultural diversity. The various ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in shaping its identity, presenting a vibrant mix of traditions and cuisines. Many international students tend to settle in areas that mirror the culture of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and ethnic clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural richness London has to offer.
### Concluding Remarks
Ultimately, the best location to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether your focus is on closeness to your university, budget-friendliness, or a sense of cultural connection, London has something to suit everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its distinct neighborhoods, and fully enjoy the convenience and vibrancy that comes with living in London.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorized 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/)