**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Adventure**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, it has been sufficient to absorb and enjoy the distinctive energy of this city. London serves not only as a center for varied housing options but also as a vibrant mosaic of communities from all corners of the globe. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student lodgings to private rentals. Choices span ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties, amenities, and transport links online.
As I commenced my hunt for accommodation, I was particularly interested in renting a room in Central London. Being close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus was my foremost concern. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel between these zones. However, commuting between zones can lead to fares of up to £5.25 each day, prompting me to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. For longer travels, I discovered the Oyster card to be an economical option. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, enhancing connectivity.
Nonetheless, residing in Central London carries a substantial financial burden. To alleviate expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something less common in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another vital aspect for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies proved indispensable, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s vast cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to choose areas that echo their homeland’s familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a lively South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into London’s multicultural landscape.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s myriad accommodation options, immersing yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, or simply relishing the ease of its exceptional transport links, London provides something for everyone. My experience here has been a journey of insight, and I urge anyone relocating to this extraordinary city to embrace its diversity and seize the opportunities it presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*