**Experiencing Life and Housing in London: Insights from a Student**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be an extensive period, I have gained significant knowledge about life in this vibrant city. London showcases not only a rich diversity in its populace but also a wide array of housing options. Students can choose from various accommodations including student residences and private rentals. The choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily book viewings in person, international students can investigate resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential places online, assess facilities, and consider their distance to public transport.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social areas, and, most importantly, the Imperial campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The extensive transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting across zones with ease. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can prove expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To economize, I preferred walking shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Thankfully, students benefit from Oyster card options that lower commuting expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services provide connectivity that extends beyond the Underground.
Residing in Central London brings with it a high cost of living, but I managed to reduce my rent by sharing a room with a friend. Additionally, I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience often harder to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility and Necessities
Living near grocery stores was crucial for me. Among the major supermarkets found in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies in close proximity is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic exam periods when every moment counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vast cultural landscape. Many international students gravitate towards areas that reflect the culture and comforts of their home countries. For instance:
– **Southall (West London)** – Renowned for its sizable South Asian community, it offers numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques.
– **Brixton (South London)** – Celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown (West End)** – A bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These are merely a few instances of London’s richly diverse neighbourhoods.
### Parting Thoughts
Determining the best place to reside in London is contingent upon individual preferences and priorities. Whether you seek affordability, cultural equivalence, or closeness to your university, London presents a myriad of accommodation possibilities. Embracing the city’s diversity, exploring various neighbourhoods, and fully engaging with its vibrant environment can lead to an unforgettable experience.
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*By Guest Blogger*
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s