**Life in London: Nine Months of Learning and Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe might appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to grasp and adapt to the lively and ever-changing essence of this city. London is not only celebrated for its varied housing choices but also for the multicultural societies that inhabit it. For scholars, the city presents a plethora of options, ranging from student lodgings to private accommodations. Choices consist of ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily arrange in-person apartment tours, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover their future residences, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
When I initiated my search for a living space, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My main goal was to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones. Nonetheless, inter-zonal travel can be pricey, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To economize on travel expenses, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly solution. In addition, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, covering outer zones. These services have diverse fare structures based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails a hefty cost. To lower expenses, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This decision greatly decreased our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that private housing might not have provided.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students looking to cut costs. Living near essential grocery stores and pharmacies proved to be particularly beneficial during hectic exam seasons, as it saved precious time for running errands.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task, considering the city’s cultural diversity and distinct communities. Many international students tend to flock to areas that mirror the familiarity of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London has a thriving South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling enclave brimming with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of London’s rich cultural landscape.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural hubs, or the convenience of its transport links, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s vibrancy, delve into its neighbourhoods, and seize the opportunities this extraordinary metropolis presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*