**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. While it might not appear that long, this duration has been sufficient to impart several important lessons about life in this lively metropolis. London boasts not only a variety of housing options but also a rich assortment of communities, making it a fascinating and engaging place to call home. For students, the city provides a multitude of accommodation possibilities, from student housing to private leases. Choices encompass ensuite and shared baths, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently schedule in-person property viewings, international students typically depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and gauge access to public transport.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for a place to stay, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, keeping me near essential landmarks, social areas, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with one and two at the core. The city’s efficient transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can become pricey, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To mitigate travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly choice.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach regions beyond the core zones, offering supplementary connectivity. However, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific train operator’s fare structure.
Residing in Central London brings numerous advantages, along with elevated living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a companion, which significantly lessened our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which facilitated connections with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an opportunity that would have been difficult to achieve in private housing.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near supermarkets was a primary concern. London offers an extensive selection of supermarkets, ranging from Tesco and Sainsbury’s to Co-op, as well as affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly useful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing the right area in London can be daunting, considering the city’s size and variety. The ethnic enclaves within London are essential components of its cultural character, providing a vibrant array of distinctive neighbourhoods. A number of international students tend to gravitate towards locations that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of the West End, is a lively district teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural richness that London has to offer.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the most suitable living arrangement in London depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you focus on being near your university, seeking cultural similarities, or looking for affordability, London caters to everyone. As you search for a residence, take the time to explore the city’s varied accommodation choices, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy that make London such an extraordinary place to call home.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*