**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 timeframe may appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to acquire significant knowledge about life in this lively city. London is famed not only for its wide array of living arrangements but also for the rich blend of communities that inhabit it. Students have access to numerous housing options, encompassing student accommodations and private rentals. The choices vary from ensuite and shared bathroom arrangements to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to scout potential lodgings online. These sites offer insights into amenities and their closeness to public transport, thus simplifying the search for those who are new to the city.
### Securing My Place in Central London
Upon initiating my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social centers, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is classified into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system, consisting of the Underground (commonly known as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones.
Nonetheless, transportation costs can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can set you back as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, I relied on an Oyster card, which considerably lowers travel costs for students. Services such as the London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones. Although ticket prices for these services differ, they provide a wider reach for those residing further from Central London.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To alleviate costs, I made the choice to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement enabled us to divide the rent and save considerably. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is more challenging to find in the private rental sector.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, having grocery stores within reach was a crucial consideration. Some of the most prevalent supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op. For more economical choices, retailers such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are popular alternatives. Being near essential services, including supermarkets and pharmacies, is exceptionally handy, especially during hectic periods like exam time.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is not a simple venture. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of distinctive areas to discover. Numerous international students lean towards locales that mirror the culture of their native countries.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling zone filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the rich diversity that London offers.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, the accessibility of Central London, or the affordability of outer areas, the city holds something valuable for everyone.
As you embark on your quest for a new home in London, take time to explore the city’s varied accommodation options and immerse yourself in its dynamic communities. Living in London is a thrilling experience, and embracing its diversity is essential to fully enjoying your time here.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*