**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 residing in London. Although it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to gather several important insights about life in this dynamic and varied city. London is celebrated not only for its extensive history and culture but also for its vast array of housing options and flourishing communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city presents something for everyone.
For students, there is an abundance of housing choices, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals. Available options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For local students, arranging in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transport links.
### Locating a Place to Reside
When I initiated my search for a residence, I placed high importance on securing a room in Central London. Being close to major attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College London was crucial for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. The city’s superb transportation network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can escalate quickly. For example, inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For extended commutes, Oyster cards offer reduced travel rates, making them a budget-friendly option for students. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center.
Residing in Central London, however, entails a steep cost. To control expenses, I opted to share accommodation with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as it presented a chance to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Personally, living near grocery outlets was a high priority. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those aiming to cut costs. Being in proximity to essential businesses such as supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times, like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are foundational to its cultural depth, providing unique experiences across different locales.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods foster a sense of familiarity and comfort for international students seeking a connection to their native countries.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the ideal neighborhood in London hinges on your personal tastes and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, the advantages of Central London, or the economical outer zones, the city has something for everyone.
As you embark on your quest for a home in London, embrace the diversity of its housing choices, delve into its rich cultural neighborhoods, and relish the vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*