**Contemplations on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Outlook**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months have elapsed since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may appear brief, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this bustling metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of living arrangements, from student housing to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students typically depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties, amenities, and transit accessibility online.
As I initiated my quest for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport system—featuring the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement among zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than use public transport. For lengthier trips, the Oyster card emerged as an economical option. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, providing links to outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operators.
Residing in Central London brings certain advantages but also notable expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This setup enabled us to divide the rent, making it more feasible. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I desired to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—an experience that private rentals may not facilitate as readily.
The closeness to grocery stores was another crucial aspect of my decision. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students aiming to economize on necessities. Living in proximity to these stores, as well as pharmacies, proved immensely advantageous, particularly during exam times when every minute counts.
Choosing the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities form the backbone of its cultural fabric, providing an array of distinctive neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the culture and comforts of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London acts as a center for the South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the heart of the West End presents a vibrant atmosphere with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into the cultural enclaves that make London truly unique.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing selections, cultural abundance, or convenience, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the journey of discovering your new home, and relish the excitement and possibilities that this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*