**Living in London: A Journey of Lessons and Revelations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just nine months back, I started my experience of residing in London. Although this might not sound extensive, it has been ample time to dive into the bustling culture of the city and gather a few important lessons along the way. London is a lively metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by the rich diversity of communities that live here. For students, the city presents a myriad of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, including choices like ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio units, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly simple. Conversely, international students frequently depend on online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find available housing. These sites offer comprehensive details about facilities, accessibility to public transport, and other crucial elements, making it easier for those less familiar with the city to navigate their search.
### Securing a Place to Live
When I started looking for accommodation, I prioritized Central London. I desired closeness to key landmarks, social hotspots, and most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The extensive public transport network—comprising the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I opted for walking shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer trips, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly decreased transport costs. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the central zones, though ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the train company.
While residing in Central London has its advantages, it also entails elevated living expenses. To alleviate costs, I chose to share a room with a university friend. This decision enabled us to divide the rent and save considerably. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that tends to be less obtainable in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. London boasts various supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland readily available. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies proved incredibly beneficial, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, creating vibrant areas that cater to assorted tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify how London showcases its multicultural legacy.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London ultimately hinges on your specific requirements and interests. Whether you value closeness to your university, cultural resonance, or affordability, London has something for every preference. As you embark on finding your new home, take the opportunity to explore the city’s varied housing selections and engage with its rich cultural districts. Living in London is a journey, and each part of this extraordinary city holds something distinctive to share.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*