**Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Almost nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Though this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunities to gather meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London serves not only as a center for diverse living arrangements but also as a confluence of lively communities. For students, the city presents a wide array of housing options, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite rooms, shared flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple. However, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing options online. These sites offer information regarding amenities, proximity to public transport, and other crucial details, streamlining the search process.
### Finding the Right Place to Live
When I initiated my search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is sectioned into six concentric zones, with one and two being the most central. The city is equipped with an outstanding transportation system, including the Underground (known as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones.
To cut travel costs—since inter-zonal travel could reach £5.25 per day—I decided to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer travels, I discovered that Oyster cards considerably lower travel expenses for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, providing access to regions outside central London. Nevertheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the operator’s pricing system.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but comes with steep living expenses. To manage costs, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to reduce our rent significantly. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations because I was eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals might not easily provide.
### Proximity to Essentials
For me, residing close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores, including pharmacies, proved essential, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Exploring London’s Diverse Neighbourhoods
Selecting the right area in London can be quite challenging, given the city’s vastness and diversity. The ethnic communities in London significantly contribute to its cultural richness, presenting unique neighborhoods that cater to various preferences.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer international students a feeling of familiarity and belonging in an unfamiliar city.
### Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best neighborhood to reside in London depends on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural hubs or its central sites, London boasts a plethora of housing choices to fit every lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, delve into the richness of its neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*