**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear lengthy, it has provided ample opportunity to grasp and acclimate to the pulse of this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its vast array of housing options but also for its rich and varied communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing possibilities, ranging from dedicated student accommodations to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can swiftly organize in-person viewings, while international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate their upcoming residences virtually, evaluate amenities, and gauge access to public transportation.
As I started my search for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social areas, and, particularly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, making it a viable choice for students. In addition to the Tube, services like London Overground and National Rail extend to outskirts outside central London, although fares differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Dwelling in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To balance costs, I chose to share a room with a university friend. This greatly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, wanting to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—an experience that private rentals might not offer as seamlessly.
Nearby grocery stores were another crucial consideration in my decisions. Common supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential stores and pharmacies is especially handy during hectic times, such as exam periods, when every moment counts.
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting endeavour, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting distinctive neighbourhoods that embody their traditions. Many international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Concurrently, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a selection of the cultural enclaves that render London exceptional.
In the end, the optimal place to live in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodation selections, its cultural depth, or its convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the journey of discovering your home here, and relish the thrill and opportunities this extraordinary city presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*