**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Takeaways**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear extensive, it has been ample time for me to gather significant takeaways regarding life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its diverse housing options but also for its vibrant and varied communities. Students, in particular, have an abundance of accommodation choices available. Ranging from student residences to private lodging, options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, booking onsite apartment viewings is easy, while international students may depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to virtually browse housing options, examine facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport links.
When I started my quest for a living space, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. I aimed to be near essential attractions, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation among these zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate, with inter-zonal travel costing as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card has been invaluable, considerably lowering my travel costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Travel fares on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure imposed by the operating train company.
Living in Central London brings both advantages and steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This setup allowed us to save considerably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups—a blend that’s more challenging to find in private living situations.
The closeness to grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to conserve funds. Residing near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies has proven to be highly convenient, especially during exam crunch times when every moment counts.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that remind them of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods represent only a fraction of the city’s cultural diversity.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London relies on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are investigating the city’s varied accommodation options or immersing yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, London provides an unmatched experience. Embrace the vibrancy of this extraordinary city and relish the convenience and excitement it offers.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*