**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear lengthy, it has permitted me to acquire some insightful experiences about life in this dynamic and varied city. London serves as a center for numerous accommodation alternatives and also functions as a melting pot of cultures and communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of options, ranging from student residences to private housing, featuring ensuite rooms and shared bathrooms, private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing tends to be quite uncomplicated, yet international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms enable them to investigate possible lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transport connections.
### Securing a Home
As I initiated my accommodation search, I was particularly interested in renting a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social venues, and my university, Imperial College, was paramount. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London’s superb transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
To economize on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For more extended commutes, the Oyster card turned out to be an economical option. In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London; however, fares differ based on distance and the operator involved.
Living in Central London, however, carries a significant cost. To help manage expenses, my friend and I opted to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an advantage that private rentals might not have easily facilitated.
### Accessibility to Necessities
For me, being close to grocery shops was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores and pharmacies nearby is a considerable time-saver, especially during hectic times like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s varied ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of experiences. Many international students are inclined to choose areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries.
For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, presenting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London showcases a lively Afro-Caribbean community and an energetic music atmosphere. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End features a variety of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural vibrancy, its diverse housing options, or its convenience and excitement, London provides something for everyone.
As I proceed with my exploration in this exceptional city, I have grown to value not only its dynamic communities but also the chances it offers for discovery and personal growth. For those planning a move to London, I urge you to embrace its diversity, engage with its cultural enclaves, and fully experience the remarkable opportunities that await.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*