**Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might seem brief, it has provided me with significant observations about life in this dynamic city. London is not just famous for its varied housing opportunities but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Specifically, students have an abundance of living options accessible to them, including student residences and private lodgings. These accommodations encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, those from abroad can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine properties online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
At the start of my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near key landmarks, social venues, and, most significantly, the campus of Imperial College. London’s layout consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily fares sometimes totaling £5.25. To cut down on commuting costs, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has turned out to be a budget-friendly choice. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services link areas beyond central London, with ticket prices varying by distance and train operator rules.
Residing in Central London, nonetheless, comes with considerable expenses. To ease the financial burden, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing since it provided chances to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that can be more elusive in private rentals.
The availability of grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively available, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential grocery stores and pharmacies proved invaluable, particularly during exam periods when every second counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s rich tapestry of cultures is showcased in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each providing a distinct experience. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of the cultural wealth that London presents.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re investigating housing options, immersing yourself in cultural districts, or taking advantage of the city’s unmatched convenience, London has something to suit everyone. Embrace its diversity, and you’ll discover that this exceptional city has a lot to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*