**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to impart several important lessons about this lively and ever-changing city. London is renowned not only for its varied accommodation options but also for the diverse tapestry of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides a multitude of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, arranging a viewing for an apartment is relatively easy. On the other hand, international students can make use of websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing opportunities online. These sites offer information about amenities, rental costs, and closeness to public transportation, simplifying the search process.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can incur high costs, with daily fares going up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer travels, the Oyster card options considerably lowered transportation costs.
London’s transport system goes beyond the Underground, with services like the London Overground and National Rail servicing areas outside the central zones. Fares for these services vary based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To control costs, I made the decision to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement allowed us to save considerably on rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided the opportunity to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals may not have offered.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present more economical choices. Living near necessary stores, including pharmacies, proved incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam seasons.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital component of its cultural landscape, presenting a range of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries. For example:
– **Southall** in West London is characterized by its large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops.
– **Brixton** in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene.
– **Chinatown**, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighborhoods represent just a few illustrations of the cultural variety that London provides.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural enclaves, convenience, or excitement that the city offers, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, delve into the wealth of accommodation choices, and savor the unique experience of living in this extraordinary city.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*