**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of living in London. Although this time frame may not appear lengthy, it has been ample for me to acquire important perspectives on life in this lively city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides an abundance of accommodation choices, from student housing to private rentals. Available options consist of ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online, examine amenities, and consider proximity to public transport links.
When I initiated my quest for a living space, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near prominent landmarks, social spots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two identified as the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation among these zones. However, crossing between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To economize on travel, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card considerably lowered expenses. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing regions outside central London. These services have different fare structures based on distance and the train company operating.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also studying at university. This setup assisted us in significantly reducing our rent. I decided to reside in intercollegiate student housing, with the hope of meeting individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical aspect for me. London provides a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also readily available. Living in close proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, particularly during exam season when every moment is precious.
Choosing the right neighbourhood to live in poses a challenging dilemma. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighbourhoods with distinctive traits. Many international students tend to favor areas that resonate with the familiarity of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its large South Asian community, which is home to Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling quarter filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the cultural diversity London has to offer.
In conclusion, the ideal area to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re searching for accommodation, immersing yourself in cultural quarters, or enjoying the city’s convenience and vibrancy, London offers something for everyone. Embrace its diversity, and you will undoubtedly discover a home that aligns with your lifestyle in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*