**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. While it may not feel like an extended period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather meaningful knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a variety of housing types but also a rich tapestry of communities, offering students countless options to meet their demands. From student accommodations to private rentals, choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally simple, while international students can take advantage of websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options online, review features, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London, aiming to remain close to major sites, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s excellent transit network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs totaling as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted for walking short distances rather than using public transit. For longer journeys, the Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for these services depend on distance and the ticketing policies of the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To curb costs, my friend and I opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing, wishing to engage with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic potentially absent in private housing.
Proximity to supermarkets was another important consideration for me. Popular chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily found, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to those aiming to stretch their budgets. Living near essential services, including pharmacies, was particularly beneficial, especially during exam times when efficiency is crucial.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural wealth, presenting an array of vibrant districts. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These locales are merely a glimpse into the diverse cultural fabric that London showcases.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation choices, cultural neighborhoods, or unmatched convenience, London holds something for everyone. Embrace your journey, delve into the richness of its areas, and fully experience this remarkable city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*