**Life in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been ample time to discover several valuable insights about life in this dynamic city. London is not only famous for its varied accommodation choices but also for the vibrant mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides a multitude of housing options, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, international students can use platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transportation links.
When I initiated my search for a residence, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, social scenes, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, making commutes to university more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. While fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and provider, they enhance connectivity.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, greatly lowering our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations because I wanted to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that private housing might not deliver.
Closeness to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. London has a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For budget-wise selections, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are favored. Living near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies is exceedingly helpful, particularly during hectic seasons like exams.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be a daunting choice. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering a rich variety of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students lean towards areas that resonate with their home culture. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few instances of London’s cultural hubs.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re navigating the city’s diverse accommodation options, immersing yourself in its cultural neighbourhoods, or simply relishing the convenience of its exceptional transport network, London offers something for all. Embrace the diversity, richness, and thrill of this extraordinary city—it’s an experience unlike any other.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*