**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months back, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, this period has been sufficient to acquire a few essential insights about life in this lively metropolis. London’s rich diversity is evident not only in its communities but also in its vast array of housing options. For students, there are plentiful choices—ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to assess potential living spaces online. These websites furnish comprehensive details regarding amenities and distances to public transport, making the search easier for newcomers from overseas.
### Searching for a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my quest for a room, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major sights, social centers, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can escalate quickly. Inter-zonal travel can reach as high as £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I frequently chose to stroll short distances rather than use public transport. For my university travels, the Oyster card has been transformative, providing reduced travel rates. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for these services vary based on the distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages but also high living expenses. To handle costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
### Close to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was a crucial consideration. Some of the most common supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Proximity to essential stores, particularly during exam periods, conserves time and simplifies daily chores.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s vibrant cultural diversity manifests in its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. Many international students tend to favor areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents a bustling environment filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a handful of the city’s cultural enclaves.
### Embracing London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re exploring the city’s varied accommodation choices, diving into its cultural neighbourhoods, or simply relishing the convenience of its premier transportation network, London has something to offer for everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding experience, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what London has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*