**Thoughts on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to appreciate the distinct vibrancy this city offers. London is famed not just for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an array of accommodation choices, from student halls to private rentals. These options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while international students take advantage of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which facilitate virtual tours and detail amenities and transport connections.
At the onset of my housing search, my main goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. The city’s outstanding public transportation system—which includes the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—makes traveling between zones straightforward. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I chose to stroll short distances instead of relying on public transit. For longer journeys, I used an Oyster card, which provides fare discounts for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube, connecting to outer zones.
Residing in Central London offers several advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I decided to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as these settings created opportunities to connect with peers from various backgrounds and comparable age groups—something that can be more challenging with private rentals.
A significant criterion for me when selecting a residence was the proximity to grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more budget-conscious alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies proved invaluable, particularly during hectic times like exams, as it streamlined my errands.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, offering neighborhoods that appeal to varied tastes and preferences. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture and familiarity of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a glimpse into the rich cultural enclaves that London has to offer.
In conclusion, the ideal area to call home in London hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of its transport links, London accommodates everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its unique communities, and relish the thrill of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*