**Residing in London: Nine Months of Lessons and Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of living in London. While this time span may appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge about this lively and multicultural city. London serves not only as a center of cultural and social events but also presents a multitude of housing choices to accommodate various preferences and financial situations. Whether you’re a student or working professional, the city offers options from student residences to private living arrangements, such as ensuite rooms, communal living, studio flats, and house shares.
For students from abroad, resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are invaluable for locating housing online. These platforms facilitate the exploration of potential living spaces, evaluation of amenities, and determination of proximity to public transport. Conversely, home students often have the benefit of easily scheduling in-person viewings.
### Locating a Space to Call Home
As I commenced my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, lively social areas, and my university, Imperial College, was essential to me. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The outstanding public transport system, comprising the Underground (or “tube”), buses, and trains, simplifies movement between zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but the introduction of Oyster cards has made commuting more economical for students. For those traveling beyond the Underground network, London Overground and National Rail services offer further alternatives, though fares differ based on distance and the company in operation.
Residing in Central London, however, carries a steep cost. To keep expenses in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also decided to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, which provided a wonderful chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would have been harder to come by in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, living near supermarkets was a crucial factor. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available for those wishing to conserve cash. Being close to essential stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam periods, making it more efficient to handle errands.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood to reside in is a critical choice, as London’s cultural variety presents an extensive array of options. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, brimming with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music ambiance. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hotspot filled with Chinese dining spots, retail outlets, and cultural festivities.
These neighbourhoods illustrate just a fragment of the rich cultural mosaic that characterizes London. Each area boasts its distinct allure, catering to diverse preferences.
### Experiencing London to the Fullest
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent upon individual interests and desires. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its efficient public transport system, or its varied housing options, London has something for everyone.
Upon reflecting on my nine months in this city, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the diversity, vibrancy, and opportunities that it presents. For anyone intending to relocate to London, my recommendation is to embrace its rich culture, explore its neighbourhoods, and seize the exciting experiences awaiting you.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*