**Musings on Nine Months in London: A Student Living Guide**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, this period has been sufficient to gain a few invaluable insights about life in this lively city. London is renowned not just for its rich history and culture but also for its eclectic communities and housing alternatives, rendering it an exhilarating place for students to reside.
### Securing Accommodation in London
London presents a broad spectrum of housing choices for students, ranging from dedicated student accommodations to private rentals. Options include ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is fairly simple. Meanwhile, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which facilitate virtual tours and provide information about amenities and access to public transport.
When I initiated my quest, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, paramountly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making inter-zonal travel uncomplicated.
To reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. Traveling between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25, yet discounted Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. For greater distances, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, with fares fluctuating based on distance and pricing policies of the train operator.
Residing in Central London entails high living expenses, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery outlets was a top priority. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also plentiful. Being in proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, proves to be especially beneficial during hectic periods like exams, conserving time and energy for errands.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, offering a rich mix of neighborhoods to discover.
Many international students gravitate towards areas mirroring the culture of their home nations. For example:
– **Southall** in West London is known for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops.
– **Brixton** in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music atmosphere.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of the West End, serves as a bustling hub of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
These neighborhoods are just a handful of examples of the cultural microcosms that make London one-of-a-kind.
### Living the London Experience
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and necessities. Whether you prioritize closeness to your university, cultural variety, or budget-friendliness, London caters to all. As you seek your new home, take the time to delve into the city’s extensive accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of life in this extraordinary metropolis.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*