**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Although this may seem like a brief period, it has been sufficient to acquire precious insights into the lifestyle of this dynamic and diverse metropolis. London is celebrated not just for its extensive history and culture but also for its vast array of living arrangements and the multicultural groups that inhabit it. For students, the city provides numerous options, ranging from student housing to private rentals, featuring ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is a simple process, whereas international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate their future living spaces online. These websites offer information on amenities, rent prices, and closeness to public transport, facilitating informed choices from a distance.
### Locating the Ideal Residence
When I commenced my search for a place to live, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Residing centrally allowed easy access to main attractions, social centers, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies travel between these zones.
Nonetheless, commuting between zones can be pricey, costing up to £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I opted to walk short distances rather than depend on public transportation. For lengthier journeys, an Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly alternative. Besides the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, although fares differ based on distance and train companies.
Living in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with high living expenses. To keep costs down, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, providing the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more challenging to find with private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was crucial. London boasts a selection of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s enormity and variety. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, forming vibrant neighbourhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London is populated by a large South Asian community, presenting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity and community for international students seeking a link to their heritage.
### Welcoming London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London is determined by your individual interests and needs. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of Central London, the cultural richness of ethnic neighbourhoods, or the affordability of outer zones, London presents options for everyone.
As I reflect on my time here, I have come to value the diversity and vibrancy of this extraordinary city. From discovering its myriad accommodation options to engaging with its cultural richness, my time in London has been thrilling and enriching.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*