**Living in London: A Reflection after Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear as an extended period, it has provided me ample opportunity to acquire significant knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for its rich cultural communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of living arrangements, from student housing to private rentals. Choices include private rooms, studio apartments, ensuite and shared bathrooms, and house shares. While local students can easily set up in-person apartment viewings, international students might depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
As I commenced my hunt for a place to reside, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system — including the Underground (often called the Tube), buses, and trains — making navigation between these zones straightforward. However, travel fees can add up quickly, with inter-zonal journeys costing up to £5.25 daily. To minimize expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For university travel, the Oyster card provides discounted fare options, making it an economical choice. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages as well as high living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a friend attending the same university. This decision significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodation, as I wished to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets — an experience that private housing might not have facilitated as smoothly.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. London hosts a plethora of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students looking to economize. Living in close proximity to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proved highly convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vastness and variety. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting vibrant neighbourhoods that mirror the city’s multicultural essence. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the rich cultural mosaic that London has to offer.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s broad housing offerings, its cultural districts, or its convenience and vibrancy, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home in this extraordinary city, and take the opportunity to explore all it has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*