**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Although it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it’s been sufficient to gather several important insights regarding this dynamic city. London is not only recognized for its variety of housing alternatives but also for its rich, multicultural existence. For scholars, the city presents an abundance of accommodation options, including student housing, private rentals, ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple, whereas international students can depend on sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for housing online. These portals offer information about facilities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the experience for those who are new to the city.
### Searching for a Home
In my quest for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network, which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across these zones.
To manage travel expenses—since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced travel rates, making it a budget-friendly option for learners. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones to the central area. However, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also brings elevated living expenses. To reduce rent, I opted to share a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate housing, which afforded us the opportunity to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a social atmosphere that’s often difficult to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a significant concern. Prominent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is immensely convenient, especially during examination times when every moment counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, given the city’s size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to favor areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a few of the city’s cultural hubs.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing choices, its rich cultural atmospheres, or its convenience and vibrancy, London offers something appealing for everyone. Embrace the variety, explore the neighborhoods, and fully experience this extraordinary city.
—
*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/)*