**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Though it may appear to be a brief period, it has provided ample opportunity to absorb a wealth of knowledge about this lively city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing options, but also for its energetic communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, ranging from student dormitories to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate living arrangements online. These platforms offer valuable information on amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial aspects, facilitating the experience for those relocating from overseas.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I desired to be near key landmarks, social venues, and above all, Imperial College’s campus. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (affectionately referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies traveling between zones.
However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card presents reduced fare options, making trips to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube network, linking outer zones with the central city.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also brings high costs of living. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our monthly rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a social environment that can be rarer in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. London boasts a wide array of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proves particularly advantageous during hectic times, such as exam seasons, when every minute counts.
### The Difficulty of Selecting a Neighborhood
Finding the right neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming. The city’s rich cultural diversity is represented through its numerous ethnic communities, each offering a distinct experience. For many international students, discovering a degree of familiarity in an unfamiliar city is crucial.
For example, Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and ethnic clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London depends on personal preferences and priorities. Whether it’s closeness to campus, affordability, or cultural resonance, the city has something to offer everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new home in London, take the time to explore its diverse housing options, engage with its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*