**Living in London: My Nine-Month Adventure**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my journey of residing in London. Although this might not seem like an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to gain a wealth of knowledge about this dynamic and varied city. London serves not only as a center of cultural diversity but also provides a broad range of housing options and active communities. For students, the city offers numerous choices, ranging from student residences to private housing, including ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares. While domestic students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, international students often depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transportation.
As I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near significant attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—comprising the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel among these zones. However, crossing zone boundaries can incur high costs, with daily fares amounting to as much as £5.25. To reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances whenever feasible. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card emerged as an economical choice. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach to include outer zones. Fares on these services change based on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with hefty living expenses. To economize, my friend and I made the decision to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I opted to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private housing might not have provided.
An essential consideration for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently located, while affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times, such as exam seasons, when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, creating distinct neighborhoods that showcase their heritage. Many international students tend to gravitate towards locales that provide a sense of familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Likewise, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling environment filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivals. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are captivated by the city’s rich diversity, its cultural landmarks, or the convenience of its housing options, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the journey, explore the city’s distinctive neighborhoods, and make the most of all that this extraordinary metropolis can provide.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*