**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of living in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has presented ample opportunities to learn and immerse myself in this dynamic city. London is not only celebrated for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant tapestry of communities that reside within it. For students, the city is brimming with housing choices, ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly easy. In contrast, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations virtually. These platforms offer insights into amenities, nearness to public transport, and other critical details, facilitating the process for those less familiar with the city.
When I initiated my quest for a living space, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. I sought proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the innermost zones—one and two—being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system, which includes the Underground (affectionately known as the Tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for trips between zones, I chose to walk over short distances whenever feasible. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fares, which is a wallet-friendly choice for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. However, ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the pricing schemes of train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living costs. To control my expenses, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement considerably lowered our rental payments. I decided to reside in intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
Closeness to grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Some of the widely recognized supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are equally favored. Residing near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is exceptionally convenient, especially during exam times when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expanse and diversity. The ethnic communities in London play an essential role in shaping its cultural identity, presenting a multitude of neighborhoods to discover. For example, Southall in West London is a prominent hub for the South Asian community, brimming with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the West End, is a buzzing hub of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods offer familiarity and comfort for international students yearning for a connection to their heritage.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its varied accommodation options, or its accessible transport links, London has something for everyone. Embrace the richness and diversity of this extraordinary city and make the most of your experience here.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*