**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A little over nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to understand this dynamic city. London boasts a wide-ranging variety of accommodation options and is home to numerous vibrant communities. For students, the city presents an array of housing alternatives, including student residences and private rentals. These choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings of apartments, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate rentals online, evaluate amenities, and determine accessibility to public transport options.
In the initial stages of my housing search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is compartmentalized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (widely known as the Tube), buses, and trains—making movement among zones straightforward. Nevertheless, travel between zones can become expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides substantial savings for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube system, covering regions outside central London, although costs vary based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also comes with steep living expenses. To alleviate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rental costs. I decided on intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and around the same age—an opportunity that private rentals may not have afforded as readily.
The convenience of being close to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to save on groceries. Living in proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies proved invaluable, especially during exam periods when every moment counts.
Deciding on the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a tough choice. The city’s vibrant cultural makeup is evident in its diverse ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. For example, Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas offer international students a sense of familiarity and a connection to their cultural roots.
In the end, the most suitable area to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you find yourself captivated by the city’s varied accommodation choices, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of its transport systems, London presents options for everyone. Embrace the richness of this extraordinary city, and savor the journey of discovering your ideal home.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*