**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, it has provided me with insightful experiences about life in this lively city. London serves as both a center of varied housing options and a fusion of thriving communities. For students, the city presents an array of selections, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
Home students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, while international students can rely on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for accommodations online. These platforms supply information regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details, simplifying the search experience.
When I initiated my search for a home, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near major points of interest, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two serving as the most central. Thanks to the city’s excellent transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—traveling between zones is effortless.
However, transportation expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. To cut costs, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transit. For lengthier journeys, I utilized an Oyster card, which provides students with more economical travel options. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, reaching outer zones. The fare for these services varies based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the respective operating company.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I made the decision to share a room with a friend attending the same university. This arrangement greatly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and age ranges—a diversity harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op provide convenience, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for saving money. Living close to essential stores and pharmacies proved especially beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city is home to a rich array of ethnic communities. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that echo their homeland. For instance:
– **Southall** in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean roots and lively music culture.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations.
These neighborhoods represent just a few examples of London’s cultural richness.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal choices and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s varied housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or relishing its convenience and vibrancy, London offers something for every individual.
**Celebrate the diversity, delve into the richness, and fully enjoy your time in this extraordinary city.**
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*