**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this might appear to be a brief duration, it has offered ample opportunity to gather significant experiences about life in this lively metropolis. London is a melting pot of various cultures, providing not only a broad range of accommodation options but also a variety of communities that contribute to its distinct living experience. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. In contrast, international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine possible housing options online. These platforms offer information about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital details, making the search process more straightforward.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
When I started my accommodation hunt, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial College campus was a priority for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones.
To reduce travel expenses—since inter-zonal fares can reach as much as £5.25 a day—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card greatly lowers travel costs for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones. However, fares for these options vary based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To manage costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which allowed us to considerably reduce our rent. I elected to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—a connection that private rentals might not facilitate as easily.
### Close to Essential Amenities
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing an area in London can be quite overwhelming, considering the city’s vastness and variety. The ethnic communities in London are an essential part of its cultural character, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods to discover.
Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a lively selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you find yourself attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, bustling social scenes, or convenient transport options, London has something tailored for everyone. As you seek your new residence, take the time to explore the city’s varied housing choices, immerse yourself in its rich cultural landscape, and relish the excitement of living in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*