**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Reflections**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to collect some meaningful reflections on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its diverse housing options but also for the vibrant and varied communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing alternatives, encompassing student accommodations and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For students based locally, scheduling viewings for flats is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential living arrangements online. These services offer information about amenities and access to public transport, streamlining the search process significantly.
### Locating a Home
As I commenced my quest for a room, I aimed for Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, lively areas, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The outstanding public transport system, featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables easy navigation across zones. However, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances to cut down on transportation fees. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides budget-friendly options for students.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones. The pricing for these services fluctuates based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the train operator. Nonetheless, residing in Central London entails a hefty price. To mitigate expenses, my friend and I opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent.
I opted for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with classmates from various cultures and similar age brackets. This setting is more challenging to find in private rentals, rendering student accommodation an excellent option for building social ties.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Having grocery stores nearby was a crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prominently found, while cost-effective alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide substantial savings. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, is extremely beneficial, particularly during hectic times such as exam weeks.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s ethnic enclaves are an essential aspect of its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students tend to prefer areas that evoke a feeling of familiarity.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the core of London’s West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a few instances of London’s cultural pockets.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is determined by your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural enclaves, or its ease and vibrancy, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its lively communities, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*