**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may not appear extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to understand and immerse myself in the unique character of this dynamic city. London is a melting pot of cultures and communities, presenting a wide variety of housing options tailored to various preferences. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city caters to all—from student accommodations with ensuite facilities and shared spaces to private studios and house shares.
For students from abroad, resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom prove to be essential for locating housing. These platforms enable you to browse through listings, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport, all while being in the comfort of your home. On the other hand, local students can easily arrange physical viewings to secure their perfect living arrangement.
### Locating a Home
When I started my hunt for a room, I concentrated on Central London. Being near major attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s superb public transport network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across these zones.
Nonetheless, transport expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. To conserve funds, I often preferred to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that utilizing an Oyster card greatly lowered travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the central areas, enhancing overall connectivity.
Residing in Central London undoubtedly comes with a steep cost, but I managed to lower my expenses by sharing a room with a friend. This not only made the rent more manageable but also offered companionship amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private rentals may not provide.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a must-have. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students looking to cut costs. Proximity to vital stores and pharmacies proved critical, especially during exam periods when every second counts.
### Selecting the Perfect Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is a formidable challenge, owing to the city’s vast cultural diversity. The ethnic communities in London are intricately intertwined within its framework, forming vibrant neighbourhoods that exemplify various cultures.
For instance, Southall in West London serves as a core for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean inhabitants and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a thriving hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a sense of familiarity and solace for international students yearning for a connection to their heritage.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to live in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of ethnic communities or the convenience of central spots, London provides something for everyone.
As I look back on my time here, I’ve gained a profound appreciation for the diversity and vibrancy of this extraordinary city. From exploring housing options to immersing myself in the rich cultural fabric of its communities, residing in London has been a thrilling and fulfilling journey.
**By Guest Blogger**
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*