**Nine Months in London: A Student’s View on Housing and Urban Living**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my experience of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on the city’s lively atmosphere and a range of lodging opportunities. London is a cultural amalgamation, presenting numerous living arrangements suited to diverse needs. Be it a student or a working professional, the city showcases an array of options, from student accommodations to private lodging, which includes ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to review potential lodgings online. These sites offer comprehensive details about facilities and accessibility to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Locating the Ideal Living Space
As I commenced my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation system—which includes the Underground (or Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement between these zones.
To cut down on transport expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. Inter-zonal travel can reach as high as £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card notably lowers commuting costs for students. For greater distances, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, encompassing outer zones. Nevertheless, fares for these services can fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of train operators.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To ease our financial burden, my friend and I opted to share a room, which allowed us to considerably reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, as it provided a fantastic chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that private rentals may not facilitate as readily.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores nearby was a high priority. Some of London’s most prevalent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also broadly accessible. Being situated close to essential shops and pharmacies is extremely practical, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming, given the city’s rich cultural tapestry. London’s ethnic groups play a vital role in shaping its essence, crafting vibrant areas that represent a multitude of customs and lifestyles.
Numerous international students tend to prefer locales that provide a sense of comfort. For example, Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizable South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves contributing to London’s uniqueness.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied communities or its central landmarks, London presents something for everyone. As you pursue your new residence, appreciate the diverse accommodation choices, delve into the city’s cultural wealth, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tags: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*