**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I initiated my experience of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has sufficed to acquire several meaningful insights about life in this lively and varied city. London is recognized not just for its historical significance and landmark attractions but also for its diverse housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private housing, including ensuite rooms, shared facilities, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, for international students, platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate the online exploration of potential housing, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport links.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—makes traversing between zones quite manageable.
To economize on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. For extended journeys, the Oyster card provides a more cost-effective option for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond central London, with fares differing based on distance and train companies.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also presents challenges, particularly due to the elevated cost of living. To alleviate expenses, I decided to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—an experience that private accommodation may not have delivered.
### The Significance of Location
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to economize. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved invaluable, especially during exams when time is critical.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is quite a challenge due to the city’s vast diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End showcases a lively assortment of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that distinguish London.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re discovering the city’s extensive housing options, immersing yourself in its cultural communities, or navigating its efficient transportation infrastructure, London has something for everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding experience, and I urge anyone on the hunt for a home here to appreciate its diversity, delve into its cultural richness, and enjoy the convenience and vibrancy that London provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*