**Living in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure in London—a city that, despite its enormity, swiftly started to feel like home. Although nine months might not appear to be an extended period, it has been ample time for me to gather a few important insights about residing in this dynamic metropolis. London is not only a center of varied housing possibilities but also a blend of cultures and communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation selections, from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is simple, while international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online. These websites offer information about amenities and closeness to public transport, enhancing the search process.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
As I initiated my quest, I was eager to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The superb transport network—made up of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on travel costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card was essential, providing travel discounts for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although fares differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as it provided a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to navigate with private rentals.
### The Comfort of Convenience
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies is a major time-saver, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing the right neighbourhood in London is no easy feat. The city’s extensive cultural diversity is mirrored in its distinct ethnic communities, each providing a unique experience. Numerous international students flock to areas that evoke memories of home.
– **Southall (West London):** Recognized for its substantial South Asian population, Southall features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton (South London):** Renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community, Brixton is a center of lively music and culture.
– **Chinatown (West End):** Situated in the heart of London, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
These are merely a few illustrations of London’s culturally vibrant neighbourhoods, each providing a sense of familiarity and belonging to its inhabitants.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the best place to reside in London relies on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its extensive variety of housing options, or its efficient transport links, London has something for everyone. My recommendation? Celebrate the diversity, explore the richness of its neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy the thrill this extraordinary city has in store.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*