**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of living in London. Although this might not sound like a lengthy period, it has provided me with significant insights into existence in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing alternatives but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wide array of lodging options, from student residencies to private rentals. Choices consist of ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate possible accommodations digitally. These platforms offer information about amenities and closeness to public transport, greatly simplifying the search process.
When I started my quest, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, lively social spots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s vast transportation system—encompassing the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily expenditures potentially reaching £5.25. To cut down on transport expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly option.
Aside from the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond central London. While these services are quite handy, fares differ based on distance and the pricing framework of the train operator. Residing in Central London, though advantageous, comes at a steep cost. To keep expenses manageable, my friend and I decided to share a room, leading to a notable decrease in our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, desiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that is less likely in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to economize. Living near essential stores, including pharmacies, proved invaluable, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the right locality in London is a challenging task. The city’s diverse communities are a fundamental element of its cultural richness, offering a multitude of vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students tend to migrate towards areas that echo the familiarity of their home cultures. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London showcases a lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music atmosphere, while Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods highlight the diversity that renders London exceptional.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and necessities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its accessibility, or its energetic atmosphere, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the wealth of accommodation options, and make the most of your experience in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*