**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to experience several significant insights about this lively and ever-changing city. London showcases not only a rich variety of cultures and communities but also an array of housing options, making it an exhilarating place to call home, particularly for students.
For students, the city presents a multitude of housing choices, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals. This includes ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential living spaces virtually. These platforms offer information about amenities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process.
When I initiated my hunt for a living space, my main focus was securing a room in Central London. I sought to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—including the Underground (or Tube), buses, and trains—making it simple to traverse these zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For more extended commutes, the Oyster card turned out to be an economical choice. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones, yet fares vary based on distance and train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This arrangement significantly lowered our rent. I additionally selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something private rentals might not easily provide.
Another significant aspect for me was the accessibility of grocery stores. London features an extensive selection of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students seeking to cut costs. Living in close proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies proved to be immensely beneficial, particularly during exam periods when time is crucial.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural essence, creating a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural variety that London has to offer.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural richness of specific neighborhoods or the convenience of central locations, London possesses something for everyone. Celebrate the diversity, explore the city’s distinctive enclaves, and take full advantage of the remarkable opportunities this extraordinary city provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*