**Living in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, it has been sufficient to gather several important insights about this lively and evolving city. London is famed not only for its variety of housing choices but also for the vibrant cultural communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing possibilities, from student residences to private rentals. Options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can schedule in-person visits easily, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
When I commenced my hunt for accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Being near main attractions, social centers, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy movement across these zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily charges reaching up to £5.25. To cut costs, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card proved invaluable, providing discounted travel rates for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center, although fares vary based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also involves steep living expenses. To keep costs in check, I resolved to share a room with a friend, greatly lowering our rental costs. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—a social atmosphere that is harder to encounter in private rentals.
Another significant consideration for me was the convenience of being near grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies was a great asset, particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be an overwhelming challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students tend to flock to areas that resonate with the familiarity of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London is a center for the South Asian community, offering Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End thrives with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse into the cultural richness that London presents.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or simply discovering the city, appreciate the variety of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*