**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London—a city that, despite its size, swiftly starts to feel like home. While nine months might appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to garner significant insights into life within this lively metropolis. London is not merely a center for varied accommodation choices but also a convergence of cultures and communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of options, from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is relatively uncomplicated. However, international students such as myself frequently turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for housing online. These sites offer details on amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital information, facilitating a smoother transition to a new city.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social areas, and, most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—comprising the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies navigation between these zones.
To minimize travel costs, I opted to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card significantly lowers commuting expenses for students. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside Central London. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with higher living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to substantially reduce our rent. I also decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that private rentals often lack.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most frequented supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also easily accessible. Having essential shops and pharmacies nearby is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during exam periods when every moment is crucial.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is not a simple task, given the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Many international students tend to favor areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Likewise, Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, represents another cultural gem, filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and events.
These neighbourhoods are just a few instances of London’s multicultural essence, each providing a distinct sense of community and belonging.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, closeness to public transport, or affordability, the city offers something for everyone. As I progress in my journey here, I’ve grown to value the diversity, convenience, and thrill that London provides.
For anyone hunting for a home in this extraordinary city, my counsel is straightforward: embrace the variety of accommodation options, explore its cultural richness, and make the most of your time in one of the globe’s most dynamic cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*