**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on life within this lively city. London serves as a melting pot of cultures, providing not only a varied selection of living arrangements but also a rich blend of communities. For students, the city offers a wealth of housing options, comprising student accommodations and private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students typically depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I initiated my search for accommodations, I aimed to find a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I preferred walking shorter distances rather than using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system considerably decreases travel expenses for students. Besides the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the central zones, with fares varying by distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London, however, comes with a substantial cost. To mitigate expenses, I opted for sharing a room with a friend, which enabled us to save considerably on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation for the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a challenging aspect with private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to essential stores and pharmacies was particularly beneficial during exam periods, allowing time savings on errands.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is certainly a complex endeavor. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural depth, offering an array of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that reflect the comfort of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively enclave of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s varied cultural centers.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re navigating the city’s wide-ranging accommodation choices, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or relishing the ease of its transport networks, London holds something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, soak in the vibrancy, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*