**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to garner significant insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London is well-known not only for its extensive variety of housing alternatives but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of living options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly easy, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential homes online. These sites offer information about amenities and proximity to public transport, enhancing the search experience.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is stratified into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy travel between zones.
To economize on travel expenses—since commuting across zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily—I opted to walk shorter distances whenever I could. For lengthier journeys, I utilized the Oyster card, which presents discounted travel rates for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond Central London, although fares fluctuate based on distance and train service providers.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with steep living costs. To lessen expenses, my friend and I chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—a vibrant dynamic that’s often harder to encounter in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Basic Necessities
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while cost-effective options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students watching their budgets. Being near vital stores, including pharmacies, is incredibly advantageous, especially during hectic periods like examinations.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is quite the challenge. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a range of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their home countries.
As an example, Southall in West London serves as a centre for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods represent just a few facets of London’s rich cultural diversity.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the best residence in London is contingent upon your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re examining housing options, diving into cultural neighbourhoods, or simply relishing the benefits of city life, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, vibrancy, and thrill of this extraordinary city—it’s an encounter unlike any other.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*