**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my experience of living in London. Though this may not appear to be a significant duration, it has been ample time to acquire meaningful insights into life within this lively metropolis. London boasts not only cultural and community diversity but also a wide array of housing choices. Students in this city are treated to numerous options, including student residences and private lodgings. These range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is simple, while international students can make use of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online. These resources offer comprehensive information regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search process considerably.
As I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key sites, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system, consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. For lengthier travels, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly travel solutions for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of individual train operators.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This decision significantly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student lodgings, as I aimed to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a social dynamic that can be more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Closeness to grocery stores was another key factor for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students wanting to economize. Residing near essential retailers, including pharmacies, turned out to be a time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Choosing the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural essence, providing a multitude of distinctive neighbourhoods. Many international students find themselves drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its South Asian community, hosting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a thriving hub of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods are merely a snapshot of the rich cultural enclaves London has to offer.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. As you navigate the search for a new home in this vibrant city, take the time to delve into its varied housing options, engage with its cultural richness, and enjoy the convenience and thrill that London presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*