**Nine Months in London: Insights from a Master’s Student**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has afforded me the opportunity to acquire substantial knowledge about this dynamic city. London is famous not only for its varied accommodation alternatives but also for the multicultural neighborhoods that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wide array of living options, ranging from student residences to private lodgings. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, while international students can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and check the proximity to public transport connections.
As I commenced my search for a residence, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and, most significantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy navigation between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs rising to £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards considerably lowered travel expenses. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones. However, ticket prices for these services vary depending on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, yet it also entails increased living expenses. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement allowed us to cut down on rent significantly. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living within proximity to essential shops and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, particularly during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s expanse and diversity. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods represent merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal area to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re seeking a new place to reside or simply exploring the city, embrace the variety of London’s accommodation choices, immerse yourself in its cultural richness, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*