**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to collect some significant reflections about living in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a rich variety of cultural communities but also a plethora of housing options, accommodating a wide spectrum of tastes and financial plans. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city provides everything from shared rooms and studio flats to ensuite living and communal houses.
For students, securing the ideal living arrangement is simplified by platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which enable online property exploration, allow checking of amenities, and facilitate evaluation of closeness to public transit. While local students can readily arrange in-person viewings, these online resources are especially beneficial for international students preparing for their relocation.
### Locating a Residence in Central London
As I began my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social hotspots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s proficient public transport system, which encompasses the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, renders commuting between zones relatively manageable.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be an economical choice. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail link the outer zones to the city center beyond the Underground network.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails elevated living costs. To keep expenses in check, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at university. This decision greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a platform to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those aiming to save. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Picking the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite overwhelming given the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial component of its cultural identity, presenting a unique amalgamation of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that offer a sense of familiarity.
For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the city’s rich cultural diversity.
### Concluding Remarks
Ultimately, determining where to reside in London depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize closeness to your university, cost-effectiveness, or cultural familiarity, London caters to all. Embrace the diversity in the city’s housing options, delve into its vibrant neighborhoods, and fully appreciate the convenience and excitement London has to offer.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*