**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months have passed since I began my adventure in London. Although this duration might appear brief, it has provided me with a wealth of understanding about life in this dynamic city. London is famous not just for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant communities that thrive here. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily schedule in-person property viewings, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore housing options virtually, assess available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I started my search for housing, my priority was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s remarkable public transport network—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones. Nevertheless, moving between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I often chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer journeys, Oyster cards considerably lower travel expenses for students. Beyond the Tube, services such as London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond central London, although fares differ based on distance and the train operator’s pricing structure.
Residing in Central London, however, entails a considerable expense. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a university friend. This choice allowed us to divide the rent and make substantial savings. I decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that might be more difficult to find with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. London is home to a range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also plentiful. Living close to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies was immensely convenient, especially during exam periods when time constraints are tight.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic populations play a vital role in its cultural identity, resulting in lively districts that cater to various tastes and preferences. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke familiarity and a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural diversity London has to offer.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and necessities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s multitude of housing options, its cultural enclaves, or its unmatched convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the process of discovering your new home, and relish the excitement and opportunities this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*