**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not just famous for its varied housing options but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wealth of selections, from student residences to private lodgings, such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential living spaces online. These platforms offer information about facilities, distance to public transport, and other critical attributes, making the search process more manageable.
### Searching for a Home
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s superb transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—enables easy travel across zones.
However, traveling between zones can be pricey, sometimes reaching up to £5.25 per day. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of using public transit. For longer travels, the Oyster card provides discounted fare options, making it an economical choice for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services connect outer zones to the city center, extending beyond the Underground network.
Living in Central London provides advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To keep costs in check, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private housing might not have easily facilitated.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland accommodate students on tighter budgets. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times, like exam periods, when every moment counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are a key aspect of its cultural persona, providing a rich mix of customs and culinary experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that echo the comforts of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is noted for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a few instances of the city’s cultural pockets.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of ethnic neighborhoods or the practicality of central locales, London has something to offer everyone.
As you seek a place to call home in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to explore its varied accommodation choices, dive into its cultural communities, and relish the unique experiences that London presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*