**Experiencing London: A Nine-Month Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London, and while it may not sound extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to gain several insightful lessons about this lively city. London is renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wealth of accommodation choices, including student residences and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and communal bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and flat shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students often turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate facilities, and consider proximity to public transport.
As I started my search for accommodation, I was particularly eager to find a room in Central London. Residing centrally offered the advantage of being near key attractions, social venues, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching as much as £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. For university journeys, the Oyster card has proven to be an economical choice. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, linking outer zones. However, ticket prices for these services can vary based on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, alongside steep living expenses. To cope with the costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations because I desired to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something harder to achieve in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies has saved me a significant amount of time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, creating a rich landscape of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students lean towards areas that offer a sense of familiarity. For example, Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant hub of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into London’s cultural richness.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal likes and needs. Whether you’re looking for a new place to stay, delving into cultural neighborhoods, or simply absorbing the city’s vibrancy, London provides countless opportunities to revel in its diversity and thrill.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*