**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. While this might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient to gain some important insights about living in this lively and multifaceted city. London is renowned not only for its iconic sights and rich heritage but also for its vast array of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city provides numerous housing selections, from student lodgings to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and houses shared with others.
For local students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is quite simple. In contrast, international students tend to depend on online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find suitable accommodations, examine available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport options.
### Locating a Place to Call Your Own
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London. Being near main attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation between these zones.
To reduce travel expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but the reduced Oyster card options have made commuting to school more economical. For more extended travels, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside of Central London. However, the fares for these services vary based on distance and the train provider.
Residing in Central London does come with a significant cost, yet sharing a room with a friend substantially lowered my rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with classmates from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
### Importance of Convenience
For me, living near supermarkets was essential. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while cost-effective choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to economize. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly handy, especially during hectic times like exam weeks.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing where to reside in London is a challenging decision. The city’s ethnic communities play a critical role in its cultural identity, presenting a variety of dynamic neighborhoods to explore. Numerous international students are attracted to areas that reflect the culture and familiarity of their home nations.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively enclave brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the rich cultural tapestry that London presents.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal neighborhood to live in London relies on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s varied living options, its cultural enclaves, or the convenience of being near essential services, London offers something for everyone.
As I continue my journey in this extraordinary city, I’ve grown to appreciate its unique fusion of history, culture, and contemporary life. For anyone considering a move here, my advice is straightforward: embrace the diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the opportunities London has to provide.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*