**Residing in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. While this period might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire essential insights into the experience of living in this dynamic and diverse metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its memorable landmarks but also for its extensive range of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of possibilities, including student accommodations and private rentals, featuring choices such as ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house sharings.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, whereas international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and their closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process.
### Locating a Place to Stay
As I commenced my search, my priority was to secure a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Travel between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, but reduced Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, although fares differ based on distance and the train operator.
However, living in Central London comes at a significant financial cost. To help manage expenses, my friend and I chose to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and age groups—something more challenging to find with private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students wishing to economize. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is especially helpful during hectic times like exam sessions, conserving both time and energy.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s abundant cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its character, presenting a range of distinctive neighbourhoods.
For example, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean roots and lively music culture. Similarly, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas provide a sense of familiarity for international students seeking a link to their native culture.
### Concluding Thoughts
The optimal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether it’s closeness to your university, cultural hubs, or budget-friendly living arrangements, the city has something to accommodate everyone. Appreciate London’s diversity, discover its rich neighbourhoods, and maximize the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*