**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. While it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has provided enough time to impart several important lessons about existence in this animated city. London is famous not just for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant mix of communities that dwell here. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student dormitories to private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is a fairly simple endeavor, whereas international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential housing online. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the process for those unfamiliar with the city.
### Locating a Home Base
As I started my search, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and especially, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between zones.
Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs accumulating to £5.25. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transport. For longer journeys, I utilized an Oyster card, which significantly lowers travel expenses for students. Besides the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend toward regions outside the central zones, though ticket prices vary based on distance and the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To handle costs, I shared a room with a friend, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near supermarkets was crucial. Major grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students on a restricted budget. Proximity to necessary stores and pharmacies is especially beneficial during hectic periods, like exam seasons, when time becomes a crucial factor.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be quite overwhelming, given the city’s vastness and variety. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural tapestry, presenting unique neighbourhoods reflective of their heritage.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End thrives as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods offer international students a sense of familiarity and connection to their origins.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its closeness to essential services, or its dynamic social atmosphere, London has something for everyone.
As I contemplate my experience here, I’ve grown to value the diversity and richness of London’s housing options and communities. Living in this extraordinary city has been an exhilarating and enriching journey, and I eagerly anticipate further exploration of all it has to provide.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*