**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to discover a significant amount about this lively and diverse metropolis. London is renowned not just for its deep-rooted history and famous sites but also for its variety of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a wide selection of living arrangements, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is generally an uncomplicated process. However, international students like myself frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible housing options online. These platforms offer comprehensive information about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital features, simplifying the search process.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for a room, my attention was directed towards Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is configured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London’s outstanding transportation system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs potentially reaching up to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I typically chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer trips, I discovered that Oyster card options greatly decreased my travel expenses.
Alongside the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the central zones, offering greater connectivity. Nonetheless, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages but also high living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share accommodation with a university friend. This arrangement allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that can be more challenging to establish in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. London boasts a range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also prevalent. Being located close to essential stores and pharmacies proved to be invaluable, particularly during exam seasons when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a formidable challenge due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.
For example, Southall in West London is characterized by a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural events. These neighborhoods provide a sense of comfort and connection for international students looking to relate to their home cultures.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal area to live in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you emphasize closeness to your university, cultural communities, or budget-friendly living, London presents a plethora of options to discover. Embrace the city’s diversity, immerse yourself in its distinct neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*