**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s View**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, it has provided ample opportunity to gather important perspectives on life in this lively city. London is not only rich in cultural diversity but also presents an array of accommodation options tailored to various tastes and financial plans. Students specifically have access to several housing alternatives, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential accommodations remotely. These platforms offer extensive details about facilities and closeness to public transport, facilitating better planning.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was a priority for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—allows for seamless travel between the zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transit. For longer distances, the Oyster card system provides more economical travel options for students. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside Central London. These services feature different fare structures based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that private housing might not facilitate as easily.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. London boasts an assortment of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also prevalent. Being close to vital stores and pharmacies is extremely beneficial, particularly during hectic times such as exams.
### Discovering London’s Cultural Neighborhoods
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, considering the city’s magnitude and variety. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its character, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, nestled in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify the city’s cultural wealth.
### Discovering Your Ideal Locale
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London is contingent on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s various accommodation selections, its cultural neighborhoods, or its unmatched convenience, London caters to everyone’s needs.
As I persist in my journey through this extraordinary city, I have grown to value its distinctive mixture of diversity, opportunity, and thrill. For anyone on the lookout for a new home in London, I urge you to immerse yourself in its vibrant communities and fully leverage what this amazing city has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*