### My Journey of Residing in London for Nine Months
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of living in London. While this timeframe might seem brief, it has provided ample opportunity for me to gain insights into this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich tapestry of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city has an extensive range of living arrangements available, from student residences to private leases, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple, whereas international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online. These platforms offer information about facilities, closeness to public transport, and other vital details, making the search significantly easier.
### Securing a Living Space in Central London
As I commenced my search for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to remain near popular attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (or Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates travel between zones.
Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs climbing as high as £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transportation. For lengthier journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card could significantly lower travel expenses for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, providing access to areas outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the operating company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To keep costs in check, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also pursuing university studies. This setup allowed us to divide the rent and save a considerable amount. I also selected to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to interact with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a significant consideration. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more budget-conscious options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being in proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly beneficial, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood to reside in is one of the most daunting challenges when relocating to London. The city’s ethnic groups are an essential facet of its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that offer a sense of familiarity and connection to their native lands.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown nestled in London’s West End is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods exemplify the cultural enclaves that make London extraordinary.
### Locating Your Ideal Area
Ultimately, the optimal area for living in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural vibrancy, or its convenience and excitement, London has something to cater to everyone.
As you embark on your quest for a new residence in this remarkable city, embrace its diversity, explore its lively neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the incredible opportunities it presents.
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*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/)