**Life in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Knowledge**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Though it might not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient to gain substantial insights into this lively and ever-changing city. London is not only steeped in history and culture but also provides a wide array of living options and communities, making it an exhilarating environment for students.
For students, there is a plethora of accommodation choices, spanning from student residences to privately rented spaces. Options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, both private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and closeness to public transport, easing the search process.
When I initiated my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Residing centrally allowed for close proximity to key attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement among zones. However, traveling between zones can be costly, with fees reaching up to £5.25 daily. To minimize travel costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, discounted Oyster card options significantly reduced my transportation expenses.
In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zone. The prices for these services vary based on the journey’s distance and the fare structure of the train operators. Despite the benefits of public transport, residing in Central London entails high living expenses. To help manage costs, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from a range of backgrounds and ages—a mix that private rentals might not provide.
Proximity to supermarkets was another crucial consideration for me. London features numerous grocery stores, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies proved to be extremely valuable, particularly during hectic exam seasons when time was limited.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are vital components of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its large South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End stands out as a bustling hub of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural wealth London has to offer.
In the end, the finest area to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenience, or its lively social atmosphere, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the variety of accommodation options, delve into the distinctive neighbourhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*