**Experiencing Life in London: Reflections from Nine Months of Residency**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my adventure of residing in London. Though this timeframe may not seem extensive, it has afforded me the opportunity to obtain valuable perspectives on living in this dynamic city. London is not only varied in its housing options but also in its communities, providing a rich cultural tapestry for anyone residing here. For students, the city offers an abundance of housing choices, from student residences to private rentals. These encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. While local students can easily arrange in-person visits, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online, inspect amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport connections.
When I started looking for a place to stay, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to popular attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport infrastructure—including the Underground (typically referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates movement across these zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To mitigate travel expenses, I often opted to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system considerably lessens travel costs for students. Aside from the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, although prices for these services vary based on distance and the pricing strategies of different train operators.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also comes with substantial living expenses. To control costs, I shared a room with a fellow student. This setup allowed us to save substantially on rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, as it provided a chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals might not easily offer.
Accessibility to grocery shops was another vital factor for me. London boasts a wide array of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are prevalent as well. Living close to essential stores and pharmacies proved to be a time-saver, especially during hectic exam periods when every second counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s immense size and variety. London’s ethnic populations are a significant aspect of its cultural identity, providing a sense of familiarity for international students. As an illustration, Southall in West London has a large South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s rich cultural enclaves.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of its transport links, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, delve into the richness of its communities, and savor the thrill of this outstanding city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*