**My Journey of Residing in London: Nine Months Later**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not seem like a substantial duration, it has provided me with ample opportunity to discover a wealth of knowledge about this lively city. London presents not just an array of living arrangements but also a variety of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city boasts numerous housing options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals. Choices vary from ensuite and shared facilities to private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students generally depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
When I initiated my search for a residence, I was eager to find a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The superb transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones. However, travel between zones can be pricey, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To minimize travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, although fares for these services differ depending on distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails significant living expenses. To keep costs manageable, my friend and I opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics—something that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Another crucial consideration for me was proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist as well. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time, particularly during hectic times like the exam period.
Selecting the suitable neighbourhood in London is a daunting yet fulfilling task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of distinct neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London, renowned for its sizeable South Asian community, features a variety of Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges upon your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re delving into the city’s varied housing selections, engaging with its cultural neighbourhoods, or appreciating the convenience of its transportation system, London has something for everyone. Embrace the variety, depth, and thrill of this extraordinary city as you embark on your search for a new residence.
—
*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/)*