**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Reflection**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It was nine months ago that I started my experience of living in London. Although this duration might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to gather significant perspectives on life in this dynamic and multicultural metropolis. London is renowned not only for its profound history and iconic sites but also for its diverse range of housing options and flourishing neighborhoods. For students, the city presents an extensive selection of living arrangements, from student accommodations to private rentals, such as ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, organizing an apartment viewing is fairly uncomplicated. However, international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for online accommodation searches. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and accessibility to public transport, facilitating the search for those arriving from overseas.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
As I started my hunt, I was enthusiastic about renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—allows for smooth travel between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, yet discounted Oyster card options have eased commuting to university. For lengthier trips, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, although fares for these services differ based on distance and the operating company.
Living in Central London offers numerous advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student housing, which allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a vibrant mix often absent in private accommodations.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, one of the highest priorities was being near grocery stores. The most common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for saving money. Being in proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is particularly practical, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can indeed be overwhelming, given the city’s vastness and variety. The city’s diverse communities play an essential role in its cultural essence, showcasing many distinctive neighborhoods to discover. A number of international students tend to gravitate toward places resembling their homelands.
For example, Southall in West London is famed for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas represent just a glimpse of London’s rich cultural mosaic.
### Concluding Remarks
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural neighborhoods, in search of convenience, or aiming for affordable living arrangements, London has something to offer for everyone. My recommendation? Embrace the variety, delve into the wealth of accommodation possibilities, and seize the excitement and opportunities that London has in store.
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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/)*