**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Review**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire significant knowledge about life in this lively city. London is well-known not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich array of communities that make it their home. Students have access to numerous housing selections, including student accommodations and private rentals. Choices comprise ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport facilities.
### Discovering My Place in Central London
As I initiated my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to major attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s outstanding public transport system, including the Underground (popularly known as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones.
Nonetheless, travel costs can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. To cut expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. For lengthier commutes, I discovered that utilizing an Oyster card significantly decreased travel costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to regions outside central London. Fares for these services differ depending on distance and the regulations of individual train providers.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To mitigate these costs, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled at the university. This setup not only lowered our rent but also made it more manageable to live in such a desirable area. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
### The Significance of Convenience
For me, residing near grocery stores was an essential criterion. Notable supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to save money. Being in proximity to vital stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods, when time is crucial.
### Determining the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting various distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community. The locality is filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural wealth that London provides.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its varied housing options, or its unmatched convenience, London has something to offer everyone. My recommendation to anyone seeking accommodation here is to appreciate the city’s diversity, explore its vibrant communities, and fully embrace the excitement and opportunities that London has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*