**Nine Months in London: Insights from a Master’s Student**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I started my adventure living in London. Although this may appear to be a brief period, it has proven sufficient to gather some meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the extensive range of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides an array of alternatives, from dedicated student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated. In contrast, international students often utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential homes online. These sites offer information on amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details, facilitating a more manageable search process.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my room search, I concentrated on Central London to remain near key attractions, lively social areas, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s remarkable transport system—including the Underground (known as the Tube), buses, and trains—allows for easy navigation throughout the zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach costs of £5.25 daily. To save money, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer trips, I utilized an Oyster card, which significantly lowers transportation costs for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure set by the train operators.
Living in Central London entails considerable living expenses. To handle costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also in university. This decision allowed us to save substantially on rent. I also preferred to reside in intercollegiate student housing, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages—a dynamic that private rentals often lack.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while budget stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to save some cash. Being nearby to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times, such as exam periods, when time is limited.
### The Challenge of Selecting a Neighborhood
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s cultural richness. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its character, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods that reflect different cultures.
Many international students tend to settle in areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance:
– **Southall** in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton**, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods serve as just a few examples of London’s cultural corners, each providing a distinct experience.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s rich cultural landscape, its convenient public transport options, or its lively social environment, London truly has something for everyone.
As you embark on your search for a place to call home, take the opportunity to explore the diversity of London’s housing options and neighborhoods. Embrace the city’s distinctive character, and relish the excitement and opportunities that accompany living in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*