**Living in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on existence in this lively city. London serves as a convergence of cultures, presenting not only a wide array of housing choices but also flourishing communities that contribute to the city’s distinctiveness. For students, the options are plentiful—spanning from student residences to private lodgings, including alternatives such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is simple, whereas international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate prospective accommodations online. These sites offer insights into amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search process.
### Locating a Living Space
When I initiated my quest, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across zones. However, travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances to economize on travel costs. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides affordable travel options for students.
London’s transport network includes more than just the Underground, with the London Overground and National Rail services linking areas beyond the central zones. Nonetheless, fares can vary based on the distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To keep costs in check, I shared a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rental price. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, intending to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that’s often difficult to find in private housing.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic periods like exam season.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive diversity. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting unique neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and inclinations.
For instance, Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods offer international students a sense of familiarity and a link to their cultural backgrounds.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its varied housing options, or its convenient transport connections, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the city’s richness, discover its neighborhoods, and relish the thrill of living in one of the globe’s most vibrant cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*