**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear to be extensive, it has afforded me the opportunity to learn and engage with a significant amount about this dynamic city. London boasts not only a variety of housing choices but also a rich array of communities, catering to diverse preferences. Students, in particular, have numerous housing selections at their disposal, ranging from student residences to private rentals. This encompasses ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can take advantage of sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These websites offer comprehensive details about facilities and closeness to public transportation, facilitating informed choices from a distance.
As I commenced my search for a living space, I aimed to find a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and, most critically, the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exemplary transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—ensures convenient travel across these zones. Nevertheless, inter-zonal travel can be expensive, with daily fees climbing to £5.25. To save on expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. For university trips, discounted Oyster card options were indispensable.
For those venturing beyond the Underground network, the London Overground and National Rail services span a broader region, reaching zones outside Central London. The fares for these services vary based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement significantly lowered our rent payments. Additionally, I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that private rentals might not provide.
Being close to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to economize. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, proved to be invaluable, especially during hectic exam periods when time is of the essence.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities are intricately woven into its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods serve as just a few representations of London’s multicultural appeal.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central attractions, London presents a vast array of housing options to accommodate any lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, delve into the richness of its neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and exhilaration of this remarkable city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*