**Nine Months in London: Insights from a Master’s Student**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to impart several significant lessons regarding life in this dynamic city. London is recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich cultural fabric created by its communities. For students, the city provides a multitude of housing alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is fairly simple, but international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually investigate their potential homes. These platforms offer insights about amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the process for those coming from overseas.
### Securing Accommodation in Central London
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—consisting of the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
However, traveling between zones can add up financially, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I regularly opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card presents discounted travel options, which are especially beneficial for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking areas outside central London. Charges for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To minimize costs, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This decision considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that would have been more difficult to achieve through private rentals.
### The Significance of Location
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are broadly accessible, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students wishing to economize. Proximity to necessary stores and pharmacies proved crucial, especially during exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of unique neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke feelings of home.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s diverse offerings.
### Embracing London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, the benefits of central locations, or the affordability found in outer zones, London presents options for everyone.
As I reflect on my stay here, I have grown to value the diversity and richness of London’s housing choices and communities. Residing in this extraordinary city has been an exhilarating and fulfilling journey, and I am eager to uncover even more of what it has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*