**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to gather some crucial experiences regarding life in this dynamic city. London is not only a center for various housing options but also a melting pot of cultures from every corner of the globe. For students, the city presents a multitude of choices concerning housing, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals. These options include ensuite and shared restrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While domestic students can effortlessly arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for virtual exploration of accommodations, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport links.
As I initiated my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which simplifies navigation across these zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer trips, I found the Oyster card to be an economical choice. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the operating companies.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails high living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as it offered the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more challenging in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another priority of mine. London provides a wide array of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies was invaluable, especially during exam seasons when every moment counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is a daunting yet thrilling decision. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, providing a vibrant array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that remind them of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a handful of illustrations of the city’s cultural richness.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is determined by your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re investigating housing options, diving into cultural neighborhoods, or simply savoring the vibrancy of the city, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the diversity, depth, and convenience of this extraordinary city as you seek out your new home.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*