**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has provided ample opportunities to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this lively city. London serves as a melting pot of cultures and communities, offering a plethora of housing options for students. Whether it’s student accommodations or private rentals, the choices are diverse, ranging from ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, to house shares. For domestic students, scheduling viewings is simple, while international students can depend on resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties, amenities, and transport connections online.
When I initiated my accommodation search, my main goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is classified into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a vast public transport system—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates travel between zones. Nonetheless, crossing zones can incur fees of up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances to minimize transportation expenses. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted rates, making travel more economical for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, with fares differing according to distance and service provider.
Living in Central London brings its advantages but also elevated living expenses. To handle costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing in hopes of bonding with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is often harder to achieve in private rentals.
Another key consideration for me was proximity to grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential grocery stores and pharmacies saves time, particularly during hectic times like exam weeks.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s vast cultural richness. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their native cultures. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling enclave of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of London’s multicultural landscape.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, closeness to your university, or access to vital amenities, London provides something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its distinctive neighborhoods, and make the most of the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*