**Residing in London: Insights Gained from Nine Months in the Capital**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period may not appear lengthy, it has sufficed to acquire some important insights about living in this dynamic and multicultural city. London serves not just as a center of cultural and social engagement but also provides a vast selection of housing options to meet varied needs. Ranging from student accommodation to private rentals, the possibilities are plentiful, with choices including ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly simple. However, international students like myself generally depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options online. These platforms offer information about amenities and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search process considerably.
### Securing an Ideal Residence
As I initiated my search, I aimed at securing a room in Central London. Being near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was crucial for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. Thankfully, the city’s outstanding transport system—consisting of the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones.
In an effort to reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. Travel across zones can reach up to £5.25 per day, but discounted Oyster card options have rendered commuting more economical for students. Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach outskirts beyond central London, with fares differing based on distance and train service.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails a hefty price. To balance these expenses, I opted to share a room with a university peer. This decision significantly lowered our rent costs. Moreover, I selected intercollegiate student housing, enabling me to engage with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—an experience which would have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland attract students aiming to economize. Being near vital stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during bustling times such as exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no simple feat, as the city’s ethnic communities contribute unique depth to its cultural environment. Numerous international students find themselves drawn to areas reflecting the comforts of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery suppliers, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with its plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent a fraction of London’s layered cultural fabric.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal location in London ultimately hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural hotspots, the efficient transport links, or the lively social atmosphere, London provides something for everyone. Embrace the rich diversity of its housing options, delve into its vibrant neighborhoods, and fully indulge in the vibrancy this extraordinary city presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*