**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has been sufficient to acquire significant knowledge about life in this lively city. London is not only recognized for its varied housing opportunities but also for the rich cultural fabric of its neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing options, from student accommodations to private rentals, including choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly easy. However, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transportation, facilitating the process for those relocating from overseas.
### Locating the Ideal Living Space
As I commenced my quest for housing, my attention was directed toward securing a room in Central London. Residing centrally meant proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s outstanding transport system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—ensures ease of navigation among zones.
To reduce travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend solely on public transit. Nonetheless, for university commutes, an Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly alternative. Inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, highlighting the importance of finding ways to reduce these costs. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach areas outside the central zones, with prices varying based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also brings along increased living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that would have been difficult to find in private housing.
### Walking Distance to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was a high priority. Common supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to budget-conscious students. Being conveniently located near essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly helpful during hectic times such as exams.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be overwhelming due to the city’s immense size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, offering an extensive mix of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that reflect the comfort of their native countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of London’s diverse cultural hubs.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you value proximity to your institution, cultural resonance, or cost-effectiveness, London has something to offer all. As you embark on your quest for a new abode, take the chance to discover the city’s varied housing selections, immerse yourself in its cultural wealth, and appreciate the distinct experiences this extraordinary city provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*