**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has provided me ample opportunity to glean valuable lessons about life in this lively city. London is renowned not just for its varied accommodation options but also for the rich tapestry of communities that reside within it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily organize apartment showings, international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I started my quest for a place to call home, I aimed to find a room in Central London. My intention was to remain close to key attractions, social centres, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s excellent public transport system, encompassing the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards significantly lowered travel expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing broader coverage. Nevertheless, fares for these services differ depending on distance and the operating train company.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This arrangement allowed us to save substantially on rent. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Another important consideration for me was residing near grocery stores. Convenience is essential, especially during hectic exam periods. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies has saved me considerable time when running errands.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting, given London’s remarkable diversity. The city’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural richness, showcasing a variety of distinctive neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Additionally, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s unique charm.
Ultimately, the best place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re in search of a new residence or merely exploring the city, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation offerings. Take the time to venture through its cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*