**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although it may not appear extensive, this period has provided me with meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is rich in its cultural diversity and presents a varied selection of housing options for students. From student residences to private rentals, there are numerous choices, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport links.
When I initiated my accommodation search, my aim was to secure a room in Central London. I desired to be near key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city’s remarkable public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, sometimes costing up to £5.25 daily. To mitigate travel costs, I often chose to walk short distances rather than using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a wallet-friendly option. Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones, with fares varying based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also comes with steep living expenses. To alleviate these costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that private rentals might lack.
Location to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students on a stricter budget. Living close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies has been tremendously convenient, especially during exam weeks when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast cultural plurality. Many international students lean towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London is notable for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods represent just a slice of London’s multicultural fabric.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London varies according to your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural depth, its diverse housing options, or its convenience, London provides something for everyone. As I progress in my journey here, I have developed an appreciation for the unique blend of opportunities and experiences this extraordinary city unfolds.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*