**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has been sufficient to impart a wealth of knowledge about this lively and multifaceted city. London is renowned not only for its cultural diversity but also for its extensive range of living arrangements and flourishing communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of options, from student residences to private rentals, including choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing tends to be quite simple. In contrast, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse for accommodations online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about facilities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my search for a room, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major sights, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones.
To minimize travel expenses—inter-zonal travel can be as much as £5.25 a day—I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. However, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of the railway operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with high living costs. To help manage my expenses, my friend and I chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the opportunity to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that can be difficult to encounter in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was a significant priority. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, proves particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam seasons, conserving both time and energy when running errands.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting an array of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. In contrast, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods merely scratch the surface of the cultural enclaves that make London distinctive.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are delving into the city’s diverse housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural enclaves, or relishing its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to provide for everyone.
Living in London has been a rewarding experience, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering more of what this extraordinary city has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*