**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain valuable perspectives on life in this lively metropolis. London is a bustling city, characterized not only by its variety of housing options but also by the vibrant communities that reside here. For students, the city boasts an abundance of housing alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, with options that include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is quite uncomplicated. However, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living arrangements online. These platforms offer information about amenities, access to public transportation, and other crucial details, simplifying the process for those who may not be well-acquainted with the area.
### Searching for My Perfect Living Arrangement
When I initiated my housing search, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, lively social locations, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College London. The city is organized into six surrounding zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The excellent public transport system—composed of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel throughout these zones.
To economize on travel expenses, which can reach up to £5.25 daily for trips between zones, I preferred to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card significantly helped minimize travel costs. Additionally, services like London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground system, linking areas located outside central London. However, ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of the operating companies.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To offset this, I made the decision to share a room with a fellow student. This arrangement enabled us to significantly decrease our rent. I also chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds of a similar age—a blend that can often be challenging to achieve in private rentals.
### Importance of Location
For me, a key priority was living near grocery stores. Some of the most frequented supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely favored. Being close to vital stores such as grocery shops and pharmacies proved to be incredibly practical, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Community
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich selection of distinct neighbourhoods. Many international students tend to prefer areas that evoke memories of home.
For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End of London thrives as a bustling centre of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These communities are merely a few illustrations of the cultural hubs that lend London its distinctive character.
### Appreciating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London is determined by your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are navigating the city’s varied housing options, engaging with its cultural enclaves, or relishing the convenience of its superb transport connections, London has something to offer everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding journey, and I am excited to uncover even more of what London has in store in the upcoming months.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*