**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be an extended duration, it has provided me with numerous important lessons about life in this lively metropolis. London is esteemed not only for its wide variety of housing choices but also for the intricate tapestry of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of options, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is relatively easy. In contrast, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential accommodations online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about facilities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the process.
### Discovering a Home
When I commenced my search for accommodation, my priority was securing a room in Central London. Residing centrally provided the advantage of being near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel across these zones.
To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 per day for inter-zonal journeys, I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. For longer routes, the Oyster card proved invaluable, considerably lowering travel costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, encompassing outer zones. Nevertheless, the fares for these services differ based on distance and train operators.
Living in Central London entails high costs, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, allowing us to significantly reduce rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the chance to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that is not easily found in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, having grocery stores in close proximity was essential. Common supermarket chains in London consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are well-liked. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies has been exceedingly convenient, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities, each presenting a distinct experience. A majority of international students tend to gravitate toward areas that offer a sense of familiarity.
As an example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, with various Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and musical atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End provides a bustling enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the city’s cultural wealth.
### Celebrating London’s Mosaic
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London is determined by your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or simply exploring the locale, London’s diverse housing options and cultural quarters present something for everyone. Embrace the dynamism, accessibility, and thrill of this extraordinary city—it’s an adventure like no other.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*