**Residing in London: Nine Months of Lessons and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not feel like an extended period, it’s been sufficient to acquire several important insights about life in this lively and multifaceted city. London is famed not only for its profound history and iconic sites but also for its broad array of accommodation choices and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an in-person apartment viewing is a breeze, while international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties virtually. These websites offer information regarding amenities and proximity to public transportation, simplifying the process of making informed choices from a distance.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my accommodation search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—especially since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily—I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For more extended commutes, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making it a budget-friendly alternative for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. Nevertheless, fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but it also comes with elevated living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend. This arrangement not only significantly decreased our rent but also enhanced our overall experience. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic perhaps harder to find in private housing.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to those wishing to save. Being near essential stores, including pharmacies, proves especially beneficial during hectic times like exam weeks, when every second counts.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite a daunting task, considering the city’s remarkable diversity. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural essence, providing a vibrant array of experiences. Many international students tend to settle in areas that echo the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural wealth that London has to present.
### Welcoming London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you feel attracted to the city’s cultural districts, its accessibility, or its limitless opportunities for adventures, London has something appealing for everyone.
For those setting out on their own quest to discover a home in this extraordinary city, my suggestion is to appreciate the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation choices. Delve into its distinctive neighborhoods, engage with its vibrant communities, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*