**Residing in London: Nine Months of Revelations**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, it has provided me with ample opportunity to gain invaluable perspectives on life in this lively city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich tapestry of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student accommodations to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, 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, and SpareRoom to explore housing options online. These platforms offer insights into amenities, closeness to public transportation, and other vital details.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
Upon initiating my search, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. Being near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was a priority for me. London is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional public transport system—which consists of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly reduces commuting costs for students. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. However, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. To keep expenses down, I opted to share a room with a friend, helping us save substantially on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a unique chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to attain with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was imperative. Common supermarket brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while cost-effective choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is exceptionally convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural diversity, offering an array of distinctive neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that echo the familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a fraction of the cultural wealth that London’s neighbourhoods present.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse accommodation options, its cultural enclaves, or the convenience of its transport connections, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its vibrant neighbourhoods, and make the most of the myriad opportunities this extraordinary metropolis 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/)*