**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has sufficed for me to acquire important perspectives on life in this lively metropolis. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich blend of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wealth of selections, ranging from student accommodations to private residences, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Booking apartment viewings is relatively simple for local students. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living options online. These websites furnish information about amenities, closeness to public transportation, and other vital details.
As I initiated my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most significantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is stratified into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation among these zones.
To curtail travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card considerably lowers commuting costs. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones. However, fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, yet it also entails elevated living costs. To control expenses, I opted to cohabitate with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to economize. Living in proximity to essential stores and pharmacies was particularly beneficial during hectic times, like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse communities play an integral role in its cultural fabric, presenting an array of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are attracted to areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is celebrated for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London showcases a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene, while Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are drawn to the city’s cultural enclaves or its convenience, London provides a plethora of accommodation options to cater to every lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, investigate the neighbourhoods, and immerse yourself in the thrill of this extraordinary city.
—
*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/)