**Residing in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and though this may appear to be a short duration, it has provided ample opportunity to discover several important insights about life in this dynamic city. London is not just varied in its living arrangements but also in its communities, rendering it an exhilarating place to inhabit. For those studying here, the city presents an array of housing options, ranging from student residences to private leases, including ensuite bedrooms, communal areas, studio flats, and shared houses. While local scholars can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, international students typically depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout their future accommodations, evaluate amenities, and determine accessibility to public transit.
At the start of my accommodation search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain near key tourist sites, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transport network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates travel between these zones. However, traversing between zones can incur high costs, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To mitigate travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making it a favored option among students. Aside from the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones, although fares differ based on distance and the train service provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs in check, I opted to share a room with a friend, which substantially lessened our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student residences, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a blend that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Another priority for me was being near grocery stores. Some prominent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also prominently featured. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times, such as exam periods, when time management is crucial.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be difficult, given the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to settle in areas that echo the cultural elements of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian population, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural microcosms that render London distinctive.
In the end, the most suitable area for residing in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you value closeness to your university, cultural resonance, or cost-effectiveness, London’s varied housing alternatives and neighborhoods cater to all. Embrace the city’s rich heritage, delve into its vibrant communities, and relish the ease and thrill of living in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*