**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: A Student’s View**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this lively and varied city. London is renowned not only for its vast selection of living arrangements but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wealth of options, ranging from student housing to private lodgings, such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively simple. On the other hand, international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential residences online. These services offer comprehensive details about facilities and access to public transport, making the process more approachable for those unfamiliar with the area.
### Securing My Spot in Central London
During my hunt for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—comprising the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy travel among zones.
However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, crossing zone boundaries can set you back up to £5.25 daily. To conserve costs, I frequently walked short distances instead of using public transport. For more extended journeys, I discovered that Oyster cards significantly lessened travel fees. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. While ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and providers, they present a handy way to navigate the city.
Residing in Central London offers benefits but also comes with increased living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This setup enabled us to save considerably on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic more challenging to find in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Being situated near grocery shops was another significant consideration for me. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also readily accessible. Being close to essential stores, particularly supermarkets and pharmacies, proved vital, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Diverse Neighborhoods
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mixture of traditions and experiences. Many international students gravitate toward areas where they can find familiarity and connection to their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Concurrently, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a few illustrations of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Discovering the Right Neighborhood
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of Central London, the cultural richness of diverse neighborhoods, or the cost-effectiveness of outer zones, London has something to offer everyone.
As I look back on my experience here, I’ve grown to appreciate the city’s diversity, the accessibility of its housing options, and the thrill of discovering its multifaceted communities. For anyone contemplating a move to London, I encourage you to embrace the city’s vibrancy and take full advantage of its endless possibilities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*