**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to acquire some valuable observations about the city. London is a vibrant and multifaceted metropolis, providing a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city has something for everyone.
For students, housing options are plentiful, ranging from accommodations tailored for students to private rentals. Choices include ensuite or shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for properties online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transport, enhancing the convenience of the search process.
As I commenced my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social environments, and my university campus at Imperial College was a key priority. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating straightforward navigation between zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive—up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, making it a favored choice among students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, offering connections to outer zones with differing fare structures based on distance.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living costs. To keep expenses in check, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that is more challenging to achieve with private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively available, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those seeking to cut costs. Being near essential stores and pharmacies proved especially advantageous during hectic periods like exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s profound cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, which contribute to its distinctive appeal. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas reminiscent of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that render London so remarkable.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London depends on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural wealth, its diverse housing arrangements, or its lively communities, London has something to provide for everyone. Embrace the journey of discovering your new home, explore the city’s distinctive neighborhoods, and relish the excitement of life in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*