**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Adventure**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has granted me ample opportunity to discover and experience a wealth about this dynamic city. London is not only rich in its housing alternatives but also in its communities, rendering it a distinctive place to call home. Students can find numerous choices related to accommodation, spanning from student housing to private rentals. Options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students have platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom at their disposal to explore housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport links.
As I initiated my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s principal attractions, social centers, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb public transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs potentially reaching £5.25. To curb expenses, I opted for walking over short distances instead of using public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly travel solutions for students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with the city center. Nonetheless, fares for these services vary according to distance and the pricing models of train operators.
Residing in Central London offers benefits but comes with steep living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also studying at university. This decision markedly lowered our rent. I chose to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
The vicinity to grocery stores was another pivotal element for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more budget-friendly options. Living close to essential shops, including pharmacies, is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London is a daunting task, given its vast cultural diversity. The city’s various ethnic communities are fundamental to its character, presenting an array of vibrant neighborhoods to discover. For example, Southall in West London is known for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re seeking a new residence or simply exploring the city, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.
*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/)*