### Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student Living Guide
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, it has certainly imparted several significant lessons regarding life in this lively and multifaceted city. London is celebrated not only for its famous landmarks but also for its diverse blend of communities and housing alternatives. For students, the city presents an extensive range of living accommodations, from student residences to private rentals, inclusive of ensuite rooms, shared living arrangements, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an in-person apartment viewing is fairly easy. In contrast, international students find platforms like **Rightmove**, **Zoopla**, and **SpareRoom** indispensable. These resources allow prospective tenants to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport links—all without the need to be physically in the city.
### Searching for the Ideal Living Space
When I initiated my search for accommodation, my main focus was to rent a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s robust public transportation system—composed of the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates effortless movement between zones.
To minimize travel costs, I selected to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transport. During longer journeys, I discovered that **Oyster cards** greatly lowered travel costs for students. The **London Overground** and **National Rail** services extend beyond the Tube network, linking outer zones to the heart of the city. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25.
Living in Central London is undeniably convenient, yet it comes with a substantial cost. To keep expenses in check, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at the university. This arrangement not only eased our financial burden but also enhanced our experience. I chose to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a feature often missing in private rentals.
### Essential Amenities Within Reach
For me, being near grocery stores was a must. London boasts a variety of supermarket choices, including **Tesco**, **Sainsbury’s**, and **Co-op**, which are readily accessible. For cost-conscious students, alternatives like **Aldi**, **Lidl**, and **Iceland** serve as excellent options. Proximity to vital stores, such as pharmacies, conserves time and energy, particularly during exam periods when every second is precious.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood within London can prove to be a challenging endeavor, given the city’s vastness and diversity. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods to explore. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, **Southall** in West London is recognized for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, **Brixton** is noted for its Afro-Caribbean culture and bustling music scene. Meanwhile, **Chinatown**, situated in the heart of the West End, is a lively enclave brimming with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the diverse communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Remarks
Ultimately, the best living location in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you find yourself attracted to the city’s cultural hubs, its accessible transport links, or its diverse housing choices, London has offerings for everyone. As you embark on your search for a new home, take a moment to appreciate the diversity and richness of this extraordinary city. Living in London transcends merely finding a place to reside—it’s about immersing yourself in its dynamic culture and maximizing the experience.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*