**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has allowed me to gain considerable insights into this lively and ever-evolving city. London’s reputation is built not just on its varied housing options but also on the multicultural communities that enrich it. For students, the city presents an array of housing selections, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio units, and shared houses. While local students can readily schedule in-person apartment viewings, international students frequently depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for properties online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
At the start of my quest for accommodation, I was eager to find a room in Central London. Being near significant attractions, nightlife, and, above all, Imperial College’s campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s robust public transport network—including the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates smooth navigation between zones. However, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To economize on travel, I often chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach territories beyond central London, though ticket prices vary based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with advantages but also high living expenses. To handle costs, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also in university. This decision significantly eased our rental costs. I chose to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s less commonly found in private rentals.
Closeness to supermarkets was another crucial aspect for me. London boasts a plethora of grocery stores, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also readily available. Living near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, turned out to be a major time saver, especially during exam seasons when every minute is valuable.
Selecting the right area in London can be daunting, given the city’s vastness and diversity. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, providing a sense of belonging for international students. For example, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. In the heart of the West End, Chinatown presents a bustling haven of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural neighborhoods, or its unparalleled convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s variety, delve into its vibrant communities, and make the most of your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*