**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to acquire invaluable knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the intricate mix of communities that inhabit it. The city presents a plethora of choices for students, ranging from student accommodations to private living situations, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly easy. Conversely, international students can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible living arrangements online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and access to public transport, simplifying the process significantly.
When I initiated my quest for suitable housing, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones. Nevertheless, moving between zones can be expensive, with daily transportation costs climbing to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I often opted to walk short distances rather than using public transport.
For extended commutes, the Oyster card has proven to be indispensable, dramatically lowering travel expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, providing access to locations outside central London. However, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policy of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its benefits but also entails steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I elected to share a room with a fellow student. This setup allowed us to substantially decrease our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aspiring to meet fellow students from various backgrounds and age groups—a combination that is more elusive in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was another crucial factor for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students seeking to economize on necessities. Living in proximity to these stores was especially advantageous during exam seasons when every moment counts.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of distinctive neighbourhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is notable for its extensive South Asian community, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End provides a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the rich neighbourhoods that London boasts.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are on the lookout for a new home or simply touring the city, relish the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options. Take the opportunity to explore its cultural neighborhoods and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*