**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London, and while it may not seem like an extensive period, it has been sufficient to acquire a few important insights about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides a wide array of housing alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can conveniently schedule in-person apartment viewings, international students often depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport links.
As I commenced my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near key attractions, social gathering spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two as the most central. The city’s superb transportation system—including the Underground (colloquially referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across these zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To economize on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card offers a more economical travel solution for students. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, covering outer zones with varying fare structures based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does present its difficulties, particularly the high living expenses. To handle costs, I made the decision to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at university. This arrangement considerably lowered our rent expenses. Additionally, I opted to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals might not provide as easily.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while more economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to cut costs. Living close to essential shops, including pharmacies, proved to be a time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be a formidable task. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential aspect of its cultural essence, presenting a plethora of unique neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural richness London boasts.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural enclaves, or its unparalleled convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the journey of locating your new home, and immerse yourself in the thrill and diversity of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s*