**Experiencing London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Though it might not appear to be a considerable duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire important perspectives on living in this dynamic metropolis. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the diverse array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an abundance of accommodation selections, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. However, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate available amenities, and determine closeness to public transit.
### Securing a Place to Dwelling
When I initiated my accommodation search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s exemplary transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I preferred to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can incur costs of up to £5.25 each day, but employing an Oyster card significantly decreases commuting costs for students. For those traveling outside the Underground network, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to outer zones, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To manage my budget, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly decrease our rent costs. I also picked intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds in a similar age bracket—something less achievable with private rentals.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, living near supermarkets was essential. Well-known grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to cut costs. Being near necessary retailers and pharmacies proves particularly useful during hectic times like exam periods, saving both time and effort for running errands.
### Selection of the Ideal District
Choosing a neighborhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural essence, presenting a variety of lively enclaves. Many international students gravitate towards regions that mirror the comforts of their native lands.
For example, Southall in West London is a vibrant focus for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, found in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music landscape. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods showcase just a fraction of the cultural richness that distinguishes London.
### Concluding Remarks
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing choices, its cultural districts, or its convenience and liveliness, London has offerings for everyone. As I continue my journey here, I have grown to value the depth and vibrancy of this extraordinary city and encourage others to embrace all it has to present.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*