**Residing in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my experience of residing in London. While this may not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient to gather meaningful insights into life in this dynamic city. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich mosaic of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing selections, from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse for accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport facilities.
When I commenced my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and, above all, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s impressive transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate; inter-zonal travel may reach up to £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly travel solutions for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer regions. Travel costs on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of specific train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also steep expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a fellow student who was also enrolled in university. This setup considerably lowered our rental costs. I elected to reside in intercollegiate student housing, as it afforded the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that might have been more challenging to accomplish in private accommodations.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. London boasts a range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proved to be invaluable, particularly during exam seasons when every moment counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic enclaves are a vital part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the culture of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is honored for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that render London particularly distinctive.
In the end, the ideal location to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of Central London, the affordability of outer zones, or the cultural depth of particular neighborhoods, the city presents options for everyone. Embrace London’s diverse housing selections, immerse yourself in its cultural communities, and delight in the thrill of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*