**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not only celebrated for its eclectic selection of housing arrangements but also for the myriad communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of living options, encompassing both student housing and private rentals. Choices span ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. However, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing online. These platforms offer extensive details about amenities and transportation accessibility, streamlining the search for those arriving from overseas.
When I commenced my hunt for residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. The city’s superb transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, I preferred walking shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel may amount to £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card significantly cuts down commuting costs for students. For lengthier trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. However, fares for these services differ based on the distance traveled and the pricing model of the train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails substantial living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also pursuing studies. This arrangement enabled us to considerably reduce our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I was keen to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a diversity that’s harder to encounter in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily found, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students managing tighter budgets. Living near essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies proved invaluable, particularly during exam periods when time is of the essence.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital component of its cultural fabric, presenting an array of lively neighbourhoods. Many international students gravitate toward areas that offer a sense of comfort reminiscent of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling hub of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods merely scratch the surface of the cultural richness that London boasts.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural hubs, its efficient transport options, or its lively social landscape, London has something to suit everyone. Embrace the variety of its housing selections, dive into its diverse cultural communities, and fully enjoy the thrill this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s*