**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and although that might not appear as a significant duration, it has been sufficient to impart several important lessons about existence in this lively city. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich blend of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides a variety of housing options readily available. From student accommodations to private rentals, the choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and check proximity to public transport connections.
When I initiated my search for housing, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, foremost, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily expenses soaring to £5.25. To cut costs, I opted to use my feet for short distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that an Oyster card significantly decreased travel expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of the operating company.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs down, I decided to share a room with a fellow student. This arrangement enabled us to split the rent and save a considerable sum. I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an amalgamation that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more economical choices. Residing near essential shops, including pharmacies, turned out to be a time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London is no easy feat. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural makeup, showcasing a diverse range of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward sections that resonate with the familiarity of their native lands. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods exemplify the cultural enclaves that render London distinctive.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new abode or merely exploring the city, London’s eclectic accommodation options, lively communities, and rich cultural offerings create an exhilarating atmosphere to live in. Embrace the journey, and savor all that this extraordinary city has to share.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*