**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London, and even if this duration may not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to discover and experience much about this dynamic city. London is not only famous for its varied housing options but also for the diverse fabric of communities that live within it. For students, the city presents a range of housing alternatives, spanning from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. However, international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These platforms furnish comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transport, enhancing accessibility for those less familiar with the city.
When I initiated my search for a place to reside, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, above all, Imperial College’s campus. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s impressive transportation network, which includes the Underground (commonly called the Tube), buses, and trains, makes traversing between zones effortless.
To minimize travel expenses—since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily—I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For lengthier trips, the Oyster card provides economical travel solutions for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. However, fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure set by the train operators.
Living in Central London brings its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This arrangement notably decreased our rent. I selected to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that private rentals might not have readily provided.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies proved invaluable, especially during exam periods when every minute counts.
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its character, presenting a rich mix of traditions and experiences. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke feelings of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are just a handful of examples of the city’s cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the convenience of central locations, the affordability of outer zones, or the cultural richness of ethnic neighborhoods, London has something to offer everyone.
As you search for a residence in this extraordinary city, embrace the diversity of its housing options, explore its unique communities, and immerse yourself in the thrill of London life.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*