**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and while it may not seem like a lengthy period, it has certainly provided me with ample opportunity to gather some important insights about living in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich variety of housing options as well as a multitude of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of lodging alternatives, from student housing to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can easily organize in-person viewings of apartments, international students frequently turn to sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to seek out potential accommodations online. These websites offer details on amenities and their proximity to public transportation, which simplifies the search process.
When I commenced my search for a residence, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. The appeal of living centrally stemmed from its closeness to major landmarks, social venues, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. The city’s impressive public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones may become expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For lengthier trips, I utilized an Oyster card, which provides discounted fares for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond Central London, although prices differ based on distance and train provider.
Residing in Central London presents certain advantages, but it also comes with elevated living expenses. To help manage costs, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement greatly lessened our monthly rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations since I desired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that private rentals often lack.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently located, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, was extremely helpful, especially during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a challenge. The city’s diverse cultural landscape is evident in its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. For example, Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a thriving center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods offer international students a feeling of familiarity and a connection to their native countries.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London varies based on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural neighborhoods, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to cater to everyone. Embrace the adventure of locating your new home in this extraordinary city and take full advantage of the opportunities it presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*