**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. While this timeframe may appear brief, it has provided ample opportunities to discover valuable insights about life in this dynamic metropolis. London is renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation selections, from student housing to private leases, including choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is generally uncomplicated, while students from abroad can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transportation, enhancing accessibility for those unfamiliar with the city.
When I commenced my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—including the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs spiraling up to £5.25. To cut expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card considerably lessens travel fees for students.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside central London, providing wider connectivity. Nonetheless, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific train service provider. While the attractions of Central London are appealing, the living expenses in this region are significantly elevated. Thankfully, I was able to cohabit a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rent burden. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something private rentals might not have facilitated as readily.
Another essential aspect for me was residing near grocery stores. Familiar supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively spread across the city, whereas more economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to minimize expenses. Being close to necessary shops, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s expansive nature and diversity. The ethnic communities of London significantly contribute to its cultural panorama, offering international students a sense of comfort and belonging. For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re captivated by the city’s varied accommodation options, its rich cultural communities, or its convenient transit connections, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its vibrant neighborhoods, and relish the thrill of life in this extraordinary metropolis.
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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/)