**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discovery and Learning**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it might not sound lengthy, I’ve acquired some significant lessons throughout this time. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing choices but also its lively, multicultural neighborhoods. Students here are truly catered to, with an abundance of living arrangements available just around the corner. Both student lodgings and private rentals present a variety of living spaces, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, review accessible amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I desired proximity to the city’s main attractions, social hotspots, and, notably, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding transport system comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across different zones. Personally, I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I frequently chose to walk short distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. However, utilizing an Oyster card has significantly reduced my commuting costs to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. The expenses involved in inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and each train operator’s fare structure.
Living in Central London offers the advantage of being near key attractions but also entails elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I leaned towards residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with students from various backgrounds and around the same age, something that might have been more difficult in private rentals.
For me, closeness to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic times like the exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood to reside in can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities represent a vital component of its cultural tapestry, presenting a wide array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comforts of their native countries within London. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, filled with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area rich in Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the many community-centered neighborhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, determining the best area to live in London is based on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new home or merely discovering the city, embrace the variety and richness of London’s living options, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.
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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/)