**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Overview**
*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 extended period, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for its vibrant and multicultural communities. Students here are presented with a plethora of housing options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals. These options encompass ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling a viewing is quite simple, whereas international students can rely on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport links.
At the onset of my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social spots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential to me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport system—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between these zones. However, moving between zones can incur high costs, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on transport expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides economical travel choices for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to cater to outer zones. Fares for these services vary depending on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages but also hefty living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also elected to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that is more challenging in private housing.
The location of grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are omnipresent, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those aiming to save. Living near essential shops not only conserves time but is particularly advantageous during hectic periods such as exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s size and diversity. The ethnic communities of London are a fundamental part of its cultural essence, offering a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas reminiscent of their homelands. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are but a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In conclusion, the optimal spot to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you find yourself attracted to the city’s diverse accommodation options, its cultural abundance, or its convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home, and relish the excitement and possibilities this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*