**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Evaluation**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this may appear to be a short duration, it has proven sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on life within this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied accommodation alternatives but also for its multicultural environment. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing options, which encompass student residences and private leases. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange in-person apartment viewings, while international students thrive using platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, enabling them to investigate housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate access to public transport links.
As I commenced my quest for a dwelling, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being in proximity to significant attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College was crucial for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city boasts a superb transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that simplifies navigation and movement across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. For extended commutes, the Oyster card has proven to be a financially savvy choice. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with varying fare structures dependent on distance and train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a companion, significantly lessening our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, as it provided the chance to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more challenging to accomplish in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another vital aspect in my decision-making. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are extensively accessible, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to reduce spending. Residing near essential shops and pharmacies has been an enormous time-saver, particularly during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming, considering the city’s rich cultural variety. London’s ethnic communities play a notable role in shaping its unique identity, providing a range of cultural experiences. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music atmosphere. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling epicenter for Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that enhance London’s charm.
In the end, the ideal area for living in London hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s vast accommodation alternatives, its cultural abundance, or the comfort of urban living, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home, and relish the thrill of life in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*