**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful insights into this lively city. London is celebrated not only for its varied accommodation options but also for its rich cultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents numerous housing alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up in-person viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I was looking for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near significant attractions, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was crucial to me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transport network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates navigation between these zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I chose to walk shorter distances to minimize travel costs. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly travel options for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing outer zones. Travel fares on these services are contingent on the distance and fare structure set by the train operator.
Living in Central London offers advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To cut down on rent, I shared a room with a university friend. This setup considerably lessened our financial burden. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations as I wanted to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private rentals might not offer.
The proximity to grocery stores was another important consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-conscious choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city is a tapestry of ethnic communities that enhance its cultural richness. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the familiarity of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center for Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s diverse enclaves.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re exploring housing alternatives, immersing yourself in cultural neighborhoods, or relishing the conveniences of city living, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, richness, and vibrancy of this extraordinary city as you search for your new residence.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*