**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I initiated my experience of residing in London. Though this duration might not seem extensive, it has been ample time to grasp and adjust to the dynamic lifestyle of the city. London serves not only as a center of varied accommodation choices but also as a home to a diverse array of communities. Students here are fortunate to have numerous housing options, including student accommodations and private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online. Such platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and closeness to public transport, enhancing accessibility for newcomers from overseas.
### Securing a Space to Call Home
In my quest for housing, my main focus was on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the innermost zones being one and two. The extensive transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across zones.
Yet, travel expenses can escalate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card presents discounted fare options for students. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails steep living expenses. To handle costs, my friend and I chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it provided the opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that is often more challenging in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while economical alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores and pharmacies proves to be extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s multicultural environments are a highlight, presenting a wide range of cultural experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their homelands.
For instance, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling area brimming with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural richness found in London.
### Embracing Life in London
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London varies based on personal tastes and priorities. Whether it’s closeness to your educational institution, cultural resonance, or cost-effectiveness, London’s varied accommodation options fulfill a broad spectrum of needs.
As you embark on your search for a residence in this extraordinary city, take the opportunity to delve into its cultural neighborhoods, appreciate its diversity, and savor the unique experiences it provides. London stands as a city unlike any other, and living here is a journey in itself.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tags: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*