**Living in London: Nine Months of Insights and Adventures**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to gain some important insights about existence in this lively metropolis. London is renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents myriad choices for housing, from student dormitories to private rentals, with alternatives including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing tends to be fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for accommodations online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, proximity to public transport, and other vital information, streamlining the search process considerably.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my accommodation search, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Residing near key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an efficient transportation network, including the Underground (widely referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement between zones.
To economize on travel, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but using an Oyster card dramatically lowers travel expenses for students. For longer commutes, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, linking outer zones to the city center. However, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails increased living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also studying at university. This setup enabled us to share rent and save significantly. I selected intercollegiate student housing to fully engage in a community of students from varying backgrounds and similar age ranges—something private housing might not offer as readily.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a pivotal consideration. London boasts a variety of supermarkets, with well-known chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op providing everyday necessities. For more wallet-friendly choices, shops like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Proximity to supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times, like exam periods, when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing the perfect neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, endowing distinct areas with unique allure. Numerous international students are drawn to neighborhoods that mirror the culture of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End presents an array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s diverse cultural pockets.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural centers, convenience, or proximity to your university, London provides a plethora of options to cater to every requirement.
While you explore for a place to call home, take the opportunity to discover the city’s multifaceted neighborhoods, celebrate its cultural wealth, and relish the thrill of residing in one of the globe’s most dynamic cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*