**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its varied housing choices but also for the lush array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options right at their fingertips, from student residences to private leases. Options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is relatively simple. In contrast, international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout potential accommodations online. These sites detail amenities, proximity to public transport, and other vital information.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
In my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two constituting the core of the city. The city’s outstanding transport system—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement across these zones.
To economize on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, making walking a budget-friendly substitute. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, rendering it a favored option for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with fares varying based on distance and the specific operator’s pricing.
Residing in Central London offers advantages yet also comes with hefty living costs. To keep expenses manageable, I opted to cohabit a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they allowed me to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something not easily found in private rentals.
### Close to Necessities
Personally, being near grocery stores was a significant priority. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also broadly accessible. Proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves precious time, particularly during busy times like exams.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential component of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mix of traditions and experiences. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that echo the familiarity of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community and showcases Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents a vibrant enclave of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural hubs.
### Welcoming London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenient transport connections, or its lively social atmosphere, London caters to all. As you seek a new home, take the opportunity to explore the city’s diverse accommodation choices and immerse yourself in the richness of its communities. Living in London is an exhilarating and fulfilling adventure, and every nook of this extraordinary city presents something distinctive to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*