**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set out on my adventure of living in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient for me to gather several significant insights about existence in this lively metropolis. London is famed not only for its varied housing selections but also for its deep and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing alternatives, from student halls to private rentals. Choices consist of ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible accommodations online. These sites offer information on amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital details to assist students in making knowledgeable choices.
As I started my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College was a top priority for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates movement across zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly choice.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of central London. While these services are handy, ticket prices differ based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator. Residing in Central London offers distinct advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also went for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic less prevalent in private rentals.
Proximity to supermarkets was another crucial element in my decision-making. Common grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly handy during hectic times, such as exam periods, when every moment counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital component of its cultural essence, presenting a rich blend of diverse districts. Numerous international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music vibe. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a handful of examples highlighting the cultural wealth that London has to offer.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural districts, or its unmatched vibrancy, London has something unique for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its localities, and fully enjoy this extraordinary place.
*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/)