**Nine Months in London: Lessons Acquired**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to impart a few important lessons about life in this lively and multicultural metropolis. London is renowned not only for its famous landmarks and busy streets but also for its vast array of housing choices and diverse communities. For students, the city presents an overwhelming selection, from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Domestic students find it straightforward to book viewings for apartments, but international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate local housing options online. These sites offer valuable information on amenities, access to public transport, and other crucial aspects, easing the burden for those who are new to the city.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is arranged in six concentric zones, where Zones 1 and 2 constitute the most central areas. The city boasts an impressive transport network, which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate between different zones.
However, travel expenses can climb quickly. For example, inter-zonal trips may cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transportation. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a financially savvy option. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground system, providing a wider reach. The fare for these services varies according to distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails greater living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I made the decision to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a social environment that is often harder to discover in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a crucial factor. London has a myriad of supermarket choices, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland that are also quite popular. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during hectic periods like exam weeks.
### Determining the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vibrant cultural diversity. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its fabric, forming lively enclaves that embody the city’s multicultural essence.
For example, Southall in West London houses a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas provide international students with a sense of comfort and connection to their home cultures.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its closeness to vital amenities, or its lively social atmosphere, London has something to cater to everyone.
As I contemplate my experiences here, I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the diversity and richness of London’s housing options and communities. Living in this extraordinary city has been a thrilling and gratifying journey, and I eagerly anticipate further exploring all that it has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*