**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extended period, it has provided ample opportunities to learn and adapt to the lively and ever-changing essence of this city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a multitude of accommodation choices, from student residences to private rentals. These options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
As I initiated my quest for a place to reside, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. My aspiration was to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and, above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an extensive transport network, encompassing the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates travel across these zones. However, travel between zones can become pricy, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the tube or bus. For more prolonged journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly alternative. Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, though fares differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages but also steep living costs. To manage expenses, I opted to share a room with a fellow student who was also pursuing a university education. This choice considerably lowered our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wished to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that private housing options might not have readily provided.
Proximity to essential shops was another vital aspect of my decision-making. Grocery shopping is a key component of student life, and being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op was advantageous. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Residing close to these stores, along with pharmacies, was a time-saver, especially during hectic exam times.
Determining the optimal neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s rich cultural diversity shines through its various ethnic enclaves, each presenting a distinct experience. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the cultural diversity that London possesses.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you find yourself attracted to the city’s varied accommodation options, its cultural enclaves, or its convenience and vibrancy, London caters to diverse tastes. My recommendation to anyone on the lookout for a home here is to appreciate the city’s diversity, delve into its unique neighborhoods, and make the most of the opportunities this extraordinary metropolis provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*