**Residing in London: Reflections from Nine Months of Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of living in London. Although this timeframe may not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant insights into life in this bustling metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its array of housing choices but also for the lively communities that reside within its bounds. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing options, ranging from university accommodations to private leases, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential accommodations from the comfort of their screens. These platforms offer information about amenities and proximity to public transportation, streamlining the search process.
### Securing a Home Base
In my quest for housing, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Residing in this area allowed me to be near major attractions, social venues, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s efficient transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can reach up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides economical travel solutions for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside Central London. However, the fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
While Central London provides unmatched convenience and access to attractions, it is accompanied by a steep cost of living. To keep expenses manageable, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—a combination that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
Being close to grocery stores was a key consideration for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students seeking to cut costs. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during busy periods such as exam seasons, as it saves valuable time.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s immense size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting an array of distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that echo the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London depends on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its modern conveniences, London has something to offer for everyone. As you embark on your search for a new home, take the opportunity to explore the myriad accommodation choices, immerse yourself in its rich cultural landscape, and savor the thrill of living in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.
**By Guest Blogger**
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*