**Residing in London: Lessons from Nine Months in the Capital**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure of residing in London—a metropolis that, even within this brief period, has imparted invaluable lessons. London is an energetic and varied city, rich not only in housing alternatives but also in the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing possibilities, ranging from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can readily organize in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential lodgings online, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport connections.
When I initiated my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. The city’s outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—enables easy travel between zones. Nevertheless, inter-zonal trips can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For more extended journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, making university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching outer zones. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the governing company’s pricing system.
Residing in Central London brings the advantage of being near famous landmarks, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To alleviate these costs, a friend and I opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s often scarce in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another significant factor in my decision-making process. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to minimize their spending. Living near essential shops and pharmacies proved invaluable, especially during hectic exam periods when time is limited.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor, as the city’s rich cultural diversity offers something for everyone. Many international students are drawn to areas that reflect the familiarity of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London flaunts a lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene, while Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling centre of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of London’s multicultural landscape.
In conclusion, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, the city presents a wealth of options to discover. Embrace the diversity, immerse yourself in the distinctive neighbourhoods, and relish the thrill of residing in one of the globe’s most extraordinary cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*