**Residing in London: Insights After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have passed since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a significant duration, it has provided ample opportunity to gain some important insights regarding life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its extensive array of housing alternatives but also for the multicultural societies that refer to it as home. For students, the city presents a multitude of living options, from student residences to private rentals. These choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can readily arrange in-person viewings of apartments, international students frequently turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport options.
At the start of my quest for a place to reside, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near prominent sights, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London consists of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be costly, amounting to as much as £5.25 daily. To cut expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card has been a financially sensible selection. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and the pricing framework of the train operator.
Living in Central London presents its advantages alongside steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also pursuing university studies. This arrangement significantly lowered our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations since they provided a distinctive opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that is often more challenging with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another vital element in my choices. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, has proven to be incredibly beneficial, especially during hectic times like finals.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in its ethnic communities, each offering a unique experience. Numerous international students are drawn to neighborhoods that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is celebrated for its sizable South Asian community, which includes Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and bustling music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify just a portion of London’s cultural landscapes.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London varies based on personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation options, its cultural wealth, or its conveniences, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home, venture into the city’s lively neighborhoods, and fully appreciate this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*