**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: Housing, Communities, and Culture**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Though this may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire important perspectives about this lively city. London is not only a center for various housing choices but also a blend of communities from across the globe. For students, the city presents a variety of accommodation options, including student housing and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings for apartments, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
As I started my hunt for a place to reside, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus was paramount for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones. Nevertheless, inter-zonal travel can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To minimize travel expenses, I often opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, oyster cards turned out to be a budget-friendly choice. Beyond the Underground, services such as London Overground and National Rail provide access to areas outside of central London, although fares vary depending on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails high living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This greatly lessened our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, eager to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been tougher to achieve in private housing.
Another significant factor for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Being near essential shops and pharmacies proved crucial, especially during exam time when every minute counts.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian populace, showcasing Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a busy hub of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into the cultural richness that London holds.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s various housing choices, diving into its cultural neighborhoods, or appreciating the efficiency of its world-renowned transport system, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the vibrancy and allure of this extraordinary city as you seek your new home.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*