**Life in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear lengthy, it has provided ample opportunities to glean important lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is characterized not only by its cultural richness but also by its diverse housing options, catering to various needs. Whether you’re a student or a professional, the city has numerous living arrangements available, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students, locating appropriate accommodation is fairly simple. Home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for possibilities online. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial information to aid in making well-informed choices.
### Discovering a Home
As I initiated my quest for a room, I concentrated on Central London to remain near primary attractions, entertainment venues, and the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
Nonetheless, transport expenses can accumulate rapidly, particularly for journeys between zones, which can run up to £5.25 each day. To cut costs, I chose to walk shorter routes rather than depend solely on public transport. For lengthier travels, using an Oyster card drastically lowered my fare expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground, providing additional options for residents in outer zones.
Residing in Central London provides advantages but also comes with a higher cost of living. To keep expenses in check, I decided to share a room with a friend, which resulted in considerable savings on rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it created a chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s more challenging with private accommodations.
### Importance of Location
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students on a limited budget. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s immense size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities make up a significant aspect of its cultural tapestry, featuring distinctive neighbourhoods that cater to a variety of preferences and tastes.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End stands as a bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the numerous culturally vibrant neighbourhoods London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London relies on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central landmarks, London presents an abundance of options to discover. Embrace the diversity, dive into the city’s distinctive communities, and relish the convenience and excitement of living in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*