**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gather meaningful perspectives on life in this bustling city. London is not just famous for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students, in particular, have an abundance of accommodation choices available, from student residences to private rentals. The options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling viewings for apartments is a breeze, while international students can use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I started searching for a place to stay, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near primary attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter routes instead of utilizing public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly travel options for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail lines reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside Central London. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs in check, my friend and I opted to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with friends from various backgrounds and similar ages—a combination that is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another key concern for me. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical choices. Residing near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, especially during exam seasons when every second is valuable.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London is no small feat. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, contributing to its distinctive appeal. Many international students tend to lean towards areas that offer a sense of comfort. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. At the same time, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that make London exceptional.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re investigating the city’s vast accommodation options, diving into its cultural neighborhoods, or simply relishing the ease of its excellent transport connections, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, richness, and thrill of this extraordinary city as you search for your new abode.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*