**Living in London: A Journey of Insights and Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this time frame might appear brief, it has provided me with essential lessons about this lively and multifaceted city. London is celebrated not only for its array of housing options but also for its rich multicultural communities. Students, in particular, have a wealth of choices readily available. From student residences to private living spaces, the variety includes ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view accommodations online, assess facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transit.
As I initiated my quest for housing, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near prominent landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being at the core. The city features a superb transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can be quite costly, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card proved invaluable, significantly lowering travel expenses. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London, while a convenience, comes with substantial costs. Fortunately, my decision to share a room with a friend greatly alleviated our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
A major consideration for me was the nearness to grocery stores. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonplace, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students aiming to save. Living close to vital stores, including pharmacies, was incredibly helpful, especially during exam times when minutes count.
Choosing the ideal neighbourhood in London is no simple feat. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students are drawn to neighborhoods reminiscent of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian presence, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods serve as just a few illustrations of the cultural richness London has to offer.
In conclusion, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re seeking a new residence or simply discovering the city, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary metropolis.
—
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*