**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my experience of living in London. Though this may not appear to be a significant duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not just rich in culture and communities but also boasts a plethora of housing options, making it an intriguing place to reside, particularly for students.
For students, the city presents an array of housing choices, from student accommodations to private rentals. Options include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule in-person apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These platforms offer information about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other crucial details.
When I commenced my search for living arrangements, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Residing centrally meant being near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I opted to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted travel options, making it an advantageous choice for students.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch further than the central zones, covering a broader area. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator’s pricing. Nonetheless, residing in Central London brings its own set of challenges, particularly the high cost of living. To keep expenses in check, I chose to share a room with a friend, which significantly cut down our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as it offered a chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an experience harder to find in private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential stores not only saves time but is also invaluable during hectic times, like exam periods.
Choosing the right neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming. The city’s diverse cultural tapestry is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities, each with its own distinct experience. For example, Southall in West London has a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End exudes a vibrant atmosphere with its Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods afford a sense of familiarity and community for international students seeking a link to their backgrounds.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural locales or its central landmarks, London boasts a multitude of accommodation options to cater to all needs. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*