**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may appear brief, it has provided me with valuable revelations about life in this lively and multifaceted city. London is celebrated not only for its rich cultural diversity but also for the extensive range of housing options available. From student accommodation to private rentals, there is something to suit everyone—whether you’re in search of ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, or house shares.
For home students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. However, international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to scout for potential housing online. These platforms offer comprehensive information regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details, streamlining the entire process.
### Locating the Ideal Place to Live
When I initiated my hunt for a place to reside, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College was vital for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies movement among these zones.
To reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, but fare-saving options like the Oyster card significantly lower commuting costs. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, although fares differ based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages but also steep living expenses. To help manage costs, I decided to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This arrangement allowed us to share rent, resulting in substantial savings. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—something private rentals might not easily facilitate.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. London features a range of supermarkets, with Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op among the most prevalent. For cost-effective choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent options. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic periods, such as exam time, when every moment matters.
### Discovering London’s Varied Neighbourhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting, given London’s expanse and multifaceted nature. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering glimpses into various global influences. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. On the other hand, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a lively district packed with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the rich cultural neighborhoods that London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The best neighborhood to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you favor the convenience of Central London, the budget-friendliness of outer zones, or the cultural depth of certain neighborhoods, this city provides something for everyone.
As you embark on your search for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and liveliness of its housing options, explore its cultural communities, and relish the singular experiences this extraordinary city presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*