**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insight on Housing and Urban Living**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has sufficed to uncover several significant lessons about existence in this lively and multicultural metropolis. London is renowned not only for its rich heritage and emblematic sites but also for its vast array of housing options and diverse communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of choices, ranging from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite facilities and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly uncomplicated. In contrast, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living spaces online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other crucial features, facilitating better planning.
### Locating a Living Space in Central London
When initiating my accommodation search, my foremost goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being close to primary attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was imperative. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation infrastructure, including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement between zones.
However, I aimed to lower my commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can accrue costs of up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport whenever feasible. For longer journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly reduced travel expenditures. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, providing wider coverage for those residing beyond central London.
Living in Central London does come with a steep price, yet I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend. We opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rental costs. I also preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics—a dynamic that is often rarer in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was an essential criterion. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also well-liked. Being in close proximity to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves a substantial amount of time, especially during hectic periods such as exam seasons.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Deciding on a neighbourhood in London can be an overwhelming endeavor, given the city’s vast expanses and diversity. London’s various ethnic communities are integral to its cultural abundance, showcasing a selection of distinctive neighbourhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian demographic, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, positioned in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music ambiance. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a thriving enclave brimming with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural scenes. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s multicultural mosaic.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges upon your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural neighborhoods or its contemporary amenities, London has something for everyone. My recommendation to anyone on the quest for a home here is to appreciate the variety of accommodation choices, delve into the city’s rich cultural ancestry, and fully embrace the thrills this extraordinary metropolis has to offer.
*By Guest Contributor*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*