**Living in London: Nine Months of Lessons Learned**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not be an extensively long period, it has been ample enough to glean several important insights about living in this vibrant city. London is a melting pot of diversity, evident not only in its inhabitants but also in the range of housing options available. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city provides a broad spectrum of living arrangements, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For students, locating accommodation is relatively uncomplicated. Domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while those from abroad can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living arrangements online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Discovering Your New Home
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s superb public transit system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel within these zones.
However, transportation expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transportation. For longer journeys, the Oyster card was an economical choice. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares vary based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails increased living expenses. To address this, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This decision vastly decreased our rental costs. I chose to stay in intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is often harder to find in private housing.
### The Value of Convenience
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Some well-known supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. If you are looking for budget-friendly alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are favored options. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be overwhelming due to the city’s size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a delightful mix of traditions and cuisines. Many international students tend to seek out areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a lively South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its rich Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s cultural hotspots.
### Embrace Your Journey
In the end, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural variety, convenient transport links, or lively social atmosphere, London has something to cater to everyone’s needs.
As you embark on the quest for your new abode in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to investigate its diverse housing choices, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and seize the unique experiences that London has to present.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*