**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extended duration, it has been ample time to collect several priceless observations about this lively city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant and multicultural neighborhoods. Students, specifically, have an abundance of options available when it comes to their living arrangements. From accommodations intended for students to private rentals, there is no shortage of possibilities, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple. At the same time, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential living spaces online. These platforms offer information about amenities and their distance from public transportation, facilitating the process for newcomers to the city.
### Locating a Residence
As I began my hunt, I aimed to find a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial College’s campus was crucial for me. London comprises six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city boasts a remarkable public transportation network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—which allows for easy travel between zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer trips, I discovered that Oyster cards greatly diminished travel expenses. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail operate outside of the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. However, fares for these services can differ based on distance and the specific train operator.
Living in Central London presents its advantages, but it also comes with high living expenses. To manage costs, I resolved to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This setup enabled us to significantly reduce our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a vibrant atmosphere that private rentals might not have provided.
### The Value of Convenience
For me, residing near grocery stores was crucial. Among the most common supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely favored. Proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proved essential, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing where to live in London can be daunting, considering the city’s immense size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London form a vital aspect of its cultural identity, introducing a myriad of unique neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate toward locales where they can discover a sense of familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, comprising Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods represent just a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural mosaic.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are enticed by the city’s diverse housing options, its lively cultural districts, or the accessibility of its public transportation, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the city’s richness, investigate its neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the excitement and opportunities it provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*