**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunities to gather meaningful observations about existence in this dynamic metropolis. London is not only famous for its varied housing selections but also for its multicultural populations. Students especially have numerous options concerning living arrangements, from student residences to private leases. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is quite simple, while international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for online accommodation searches, amenity checks, and evaluating accessibility to public transport.
When I initiated my housing hunt, my primary focus was to secure a room in Central London. Living centrally allowed easy access to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s remarkable transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between these zones. However, moving between zones can be pricey, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To curb expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, presenting an economical choice for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching outer zones. While the fares for these services vary based on the distance and train operator, they afford accessibility to more distant regions.
Residing in Central London has its benefits but also comes with substantial living expenses. To navigate costs, I opted to share a room with a companion, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination less common in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery outlets was another crucial criterion for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly options encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores and pharmacies proved crucial, particularly during exam periods when time is of the essence.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, showcasing a variety of distinctive neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End offers a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s cultural mosaic.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is based on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing choices, cultural pockets, or convenient amenities, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s vibrancy, explore its neighbourhoods, and appreciate the thrill of living in one of the globe’s most extraordinary cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*