**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: A Student’s View**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient to acquire some important perspectives about life in this lively and varied city. London acts as not only a center for cultural and social activity but also provides a wide array of housing alternatives to cater to various lifestyles and financial plans. For students, the selections are plentiful, encompassing student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, the process of scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly straightforward. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse potential residences online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, closeness to public transportation, and other vital characteristics, simplifying the home-finding journey.
### Locating a Residence
When I commenced my accommodation search, I emphasized securing a room in Central London. Living near key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central locations. The city’s exceptional public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones.
However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily costs potentially hitting £5.25. To cut expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card system substantially lowers travel costs for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, broadening travel options. Fares on these services differ based on the distance and specific train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To manage costs, I chose to share a room with a fellow student. This arrangement enabled us to divide rent and save significantly. I settled in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that is often less accessible in private housing.
### Close to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely available. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies can save a substantial amount of time, particularly during hectic moments like exam periods.
### Selecting the Perfect Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can prove to be a tough choice, given the city’s magnitude and diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural scenery, offering a rich variety of neighbourhoods to discover.
Many international students tend to flock to areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End stands out as a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural wealth London has to present.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are on the hunt for a new home or simply adventuring through the city, London’s varied accommodation choices and cultural zones offer something for everyone. Living here has been an exhilarating and enriching journey, and I anticipate continuing to celebrate all that this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*