### My Nine Months in London: Lessons Learned and Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunities to absorb a wealth of knowledge about the city and its distinct personality. London is an energetic metropolis, not only in terms of its varied living arrangements but also due to the lively communities that reside here. Students, especially, have a myriad of options available to them, including student residences and private lodgings. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathroom setups, private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, verify available features, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
#### The Accommodation Search
When I initiated my search for a living space, my main objective was to secure a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social spots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six overlapping zones, where Zones 1 and 2 are the most central. The city boasts a superb public transport system—comprised of the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement among these zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card notably decreased travel costs. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. Though fares for these services vary based on distance and operator, they offer an accessible way to traverse the city and its outskirts.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails elevated living costs. To keep expenses in check, I made the choice to share a room with a friend who was also a student. This arrangement enabled us to significantly lower our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to attain with private rentals.
#### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was imperative. Popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also thrive. Living within proximity to essential stores, like supermarkets and pharmacies, turned out to be a great time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
#### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood to reside in can be quite challenging. London’s remarkable cultural diversity is visible in its diverse ethnic communities, each presenting a unique aspect of the city. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that evoke a sense of comfort.
For example, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub replete with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural wealth London has to share.
#### Concluding Remarks
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize closeness to your university, budget considerations, or cultural familiarity, London caters to all tastes. My recommendation for anyone on the hunt for a home in this city is to welcome its diversity, delve into its cultural pockets, and fully enjoy the convenience and vibrancy that London offers.
London is truly a city unlike any other, and these past nine months have provided me with a rich experience. From navigating its housing landscape to uncovering its lively communities, I’ve grown to appreciate the manifold aspects of life in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*