**Living in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I relocated to London—a relatively brief time yet ample enough to gain some priceless insights about living in this dynamic city. London is notable not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing options, which include student residences and private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite as well as shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, international newcomers frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
When I initiated my search for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, vibrant social spots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is structured into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. The city’s robust transportation network—featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation across zones. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily transport costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, an Oyster card considerably decreases travel expenses. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, granting access to outer zones, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the pricing of the train operator.
Residing in Central London clearly has its benefits but also involves steep living expenses. To handle costs, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to considerably cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations since they offered a chance to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity less common in private rentals.
An additional pivotal factor for me was being situated near grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is a significant time-saver, especially during hectic times like examination periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s vast cultural diversity is apparent in its ethnic communities, each providing a distinctive experience. For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling atmosphere with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods afford international students a sense of familiarity and a bond with their heritage.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are navigating the city’s varied accommodation options, engaging in its cultural districts, or simply relishing the convenience and vibrancy of life in London, this extraordinary city offers something for everyone.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*