**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure in London. Although this time frame may not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this vibrant city. London flourishes on its diversity—not only in its inhabitants and culture but also in its lodging alternatives. For students, the selections are plentiful, encompassing student residences to private rentals, featuring options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite easy. In contrast, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for potential homes online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, proximity to public transit, and other vital information, making it easier for those new to the city.
### Searching for a Place to Reside
As I initiated my quest, my main focus was securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates movement between these zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To conserve funds, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transportation. For longer journeys, having an Oyster card was essential, providing discounted travel rates for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Although fares for these services vary, they offer an easy way to discover the city’s outskirts.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To reduce costs, I made the choice to share a room with a friend also attending university. This decision greatly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that is more challenging to find in private housing.
### Importance of Location
For me, living near grocery shops was crucial. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students wanting to economize. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly useful during hectic times, like exam periods, when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London isn’t a straightforward task. The ethnic communities in the city form a key part of its cultural essence, revealing a variety of lively and distinct areas to discover. Numerous international students are drawn to neighbourhoods that resonate with the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of the rich cultural heritage that London presents.
### Enjoying Life in London
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual tastes and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or just roaming the city, London’s diversity, cultural neighborhoods, and lively spirit render it an exceptionally extraordinary place to call home.
For students like myself, the experience of seeking accommodation and settling into London is as much about adjusting as it is about embracing the unique prospects this city affords.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*