**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although it may appear to be a brief period, I have managed to collect several insightful observations about life in this lively metropolis. London is renowned not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the rich cultural mosaic crafted by its residents. For students, the city presents a plethora of living arrangements, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students typically can arrange in-person viewings, international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport options.
When I initiated my apartment hunt, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to remain in close proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. The outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones. However, travelling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To mitigate travel costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that the Oyster card offered a budget-friendly solution. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific rail operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a significant cost, as it is home to numerous prominent attractions. To manage expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This arrangement considerably lowered our rental costs. I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations because I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that would have been more challenging in private housing.
Nearby grocery stores were another crucial aspect for me. Among the most popular supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are present as well. Living close to essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies proved to be incredibly beneficial, particularly during intense exam times when every moment counts.
Choosing the right neighbourhood in London can be a daunting choice. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a plethora of distinctive neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the culture of their homelands. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population and is full of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London showcases a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community along with a dynamic music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely examples of the abundant diversity that London has to offer.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London relies on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new place to call home or exploring the city, embrace the variety of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural pockets, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*