### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire a few important insights about life in this dynamic metropolis. London is famous not just for its myriad accommodation choices but also for the vibrant cultural mosaic of its neighborhoods. Here, students have an abundance of housing options available, from student housing to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is a breeze, but international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential living spaces online. These platforms offer insights about facilities, proximity to public transport, and other vital information, simplifying the transition for newcomers from abroad.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I embarked on my journey to find accommodation, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city’s superb transport network—which includes the Underground (often referred to as the tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To cut expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card proved to be an economical choice. Besides the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although ticket prices for these services differ according to distance and the specific train company.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages but also presents challenges, especially due to the high living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an easier task compared to private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide budget-friendly options. Proximity to essential facilities such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves precious time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its character, providing a wealth of cultural experiences. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror the familiarity of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community and is filled with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton, located in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the diverse communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual priorities and preferences. Whether you are attracted to the convenience of central locales, the economical nature of outer zones, or the cultural vibrancy of particular neighborhoods, London offers something for everyone.
As you seek a new home in this extraordinary city, embrace its diversity, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and take advantage of the incredible opportunities it presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*