**Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain valuable perspectives on life within this dynamic city. London is recognized not just for its diverse selection of housing but also for its rich multicultural populace. Students, in particular, benefit from an abundance of housing options ranging from student dormitories to private rentals. Choices include both ensuite and shared bathing facilities, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared homes. While domestic students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, international students tend to depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and gauge the ease of access to public transport.
When I initiated my housing hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to reside near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central locations. The exceptional public transport system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement throughout these zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares escalating to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a cost-efficient alternative. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, serving outer zones with varying fare options based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages but also entails steep living expenses. Thankfully, I was able to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that would have been more challenging to find in private housing.
The closeness to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students with limited finances. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, is exceptionally practical, particularly during busy times like exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its character, presenting vibrant and distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas reminiscent of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and bustling music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the core of the West End showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the most suitable area to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re investigating housing options, diving into the city’s cultural depth, or relishing the convenience of its top-notch transport network, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the diversity, immerse yourself in the vibrancy, and take advantage of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*