**Residing in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my time in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge during my residency. London stands out as a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive range of housing choices but also by the richness of its communities. Students here enjoy a plethora of options. From student accommodations to private rentals, there’s something for everyone—spanning from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For home students, arranging apartment viewings is easy, whereas international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate prospective housing online, review amenities, and evaluate travel convenience to public transport.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social spots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the heart of the city. The transportation network is superb, with the Underground (tube), bus systems, and trains ensuring smooth movement between zones. Nonetheless, I sought to lower my travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To save costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, the options available with the Oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure used by the train operator.
Residing in Central London can be costly due to its closeness to major landmarks. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student lodging, eager to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience harder to attain in private rentals.
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential places like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in the city’s cultural tapestry, presenting a rich assortment of neighbourhoods. Many international students yearn for the familiarity of their homeland while in London. For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, boasting numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a bustling locale filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the many lively community neighbourhoods throughout London.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on individual interests and requirements. As you embark on your quest for a new home in this metropolis, soak in the diversity and vibrancy of its housing offerings, delve into its cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement London presents.
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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/)*