**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I started my adventure of living in London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful understanding of life in this lively city. London is famed not only for its varied housing opportunities but also for the diverse array of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a wide range of accommodation options, from student housing to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for housing options online. These platforms disclose details about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital information, making the experience easier for newcomers to the city.
### Locating Your Ideal Home
When I commenced my search, I aimed to secure a room in central London. Living near key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College was high on my list. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation across zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—since multi-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily—I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For extended journeys, the Oyster card presents discounted fares, making it an economical choice for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas located outside the central zones. Nevertheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the operating company.
Living in Central London offers its advantages, like closeness to major sites, but it also brings higher living costs. To alleviate these financial burdens, I decided to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This setup significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations since I wished to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age cohort—an experience that private housing may not have provided.
### Convenience Matters
Proximity to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively available, while cost-effective alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near these shops, as well as pharmacies, has been a considerable time-saver, particularly during exam seasons when every moment is precious.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural fabric, providing a rich range of experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the bustling West End offers an extensive selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural enclaves.
### Adapting to Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural wealth, its practicality, or its dynamic communities, London has something for everyone. My recommendation for anyone on the lookout for housing in this extraordinary city is to welcome its diversity, explore its distinctive neighborhoods, and fully utilize the opportunities it offers.
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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/)*