**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive period, it has offered me several insightful lessons regarding life in this lively metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich cultural fabric of its communities. For students, the city provides an abundance of living arrangements, including student accommodations and private rentals, with choices such as ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly effortless. However, international students frequently utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which enable them to investigate potential accommodations online. These sites present information about amenities and closeness to public transportation, simplifying the search for those who are new to the city.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, social areas, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can soar up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances when feasible. For longer trips, the Oyster card substantially lowers transportation costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, allowing access to outer zones. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers the added advantage of being close to renowned attractions, but this convenience comes at a significant expense. To control costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which provided substantial savings on rent. I also decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that is often harder to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was of utmost importance. London presents a plethora of supermarket choices, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops and pharmacies in proximity is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural essence, forming a diverse tapestry of areas. Many international students are drawn to neighborhoods that resonate with the culture of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. In contrast, Chinatown, located in the West End, boasts a bustling array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a handful of the lively community enclaves that London has to present.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London relies on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central attractions, London’s housing options suit a variety of tastes. As you embark on the hunt for a new home in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to explore its diversity, appreciate its richness, and relish the convenience and excitement it offers.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*