**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my venture of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant revelations regarding life in this dynamic city. London stands out not only for its various housing options but also for the rich array of communities that comprise it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite uncomplicated. Conversely, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine prospective accommodations online. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities and their closeness to public transportation, enhancing accessibility.
### Securing a Place to Reside
When I initiated my quest for a residence, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. My main goal was to remain near significant attractions, vibrant social areas, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones with ease.
To reduce travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of depending on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, but cost-effective Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing further connectivity. Nevertheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages but also entails high living expenses. To mitigate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which drastically lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed for interaction with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that is more challenging to find with private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Familiar supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students seeking to cut costs. Proximity to vital stores and pharmacies is particularly convenient during hectic times such as exam periods, saving both time and effort.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting given the city’s considerable size and variety. The ethnic communities in London significantly contribute to its cultural character, presenting several distinctive neighbourhoods for exploration. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that echo their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the city’s diverse cultural enclaves.
### Welcoming London’s Diversity
In conclusion, the ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re enticed by the city’s cultural variety, its practicality, or its lively social atmosphere, London has something to offer everyone.
As I contemplate my experience here, I have grown to value the abundance of accommodation choices in London, the kindness of its communities, and the thrill of living in such an extraordinary city. For anyone on the lookout for a new residence in London, my recommendation is to embrace its diversity, discover its cultural neighbourhoods, and fully appreciate everything this remarkable city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*