**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to acquire significant knowledge about this dynamic city. London serves not only as a center for various housing options but also as a confluence of cultures from all corners of the globe. For students, the metropolis presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student residences to independent rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can conveniently schedule in-person apartment viewings, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing virtually, verify amenities, and evaluate the nearness to public transportation connections.
As I initiated my quest, I was eager to locate a room in Central London. Residing near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The extensive public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation between the zones. However, travel between zones can be costly, reaching up to £5.25 each day. To reduce travel costs, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For lengthier commutes, I found the Oyster card to be a budget-friendly option. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail expand to regions beyond central London, albeit fares differ based on distance and the pricing criteria of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, though it also entails heightened living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. I also chose to live in intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that would have been more challenging to achieve in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration in my decision-making. London boasts a range of supermarket options, with Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op being some of the most prevalent. For budget-conscious alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are exceptional selections. Living near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, particularly during the hectic exam period.
Choosing the right neighborhood to reside in is a challenging endeavor, given London’s abundant cultural diversity. Many international students are attracted to areas that echo the culture and familiarity of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, presenting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods merely showcase a glimpse into the rich fabric of London’s ethnic communities.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its varied housing choices, or its accessibility and vibrancy, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its distinct neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*