**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to accumulate essential perspectives about life in this lively city. London is well-known not just for its varied housing options but also for the energetic communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, from student accommodations to private leases. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily set up in-person visits for apartments, international students frequently depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge the proximity to public transport links.
When I initiated my accommodation search, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to reside near major attractions, social hotspots, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs hitting up to £5.25. To mitigate travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For lengthier travels, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly choice. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, covering outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London has the advantage of proximity to key attractions but also involves elevated living expenses. To keep my costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a fellow university attendee. This situation significantly lowered our rent. I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is tougher to achieve with private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary stores and pharmacies proved to be a time-saver, particularly during exam seasons when convenience is vital.
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task, considering the city’s abundant cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its essence, providing distinctive neighbourhoods that mirror their heritage. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that offer familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual likes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation choices, its cultural richness, or its convenience, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home, delve into the city’s vibrant communities, and relish the thrill of life in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*