**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has provided me with the opportunity to gain several important insights about living in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich array of communities that reside within it. For students, the city presents numerous housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, international students typically depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transit links.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near significant landmarks, social centers, and, most crucially, close to Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates travel between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer journeys, I discovered that employing an Oyster card substantially lowered travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. These services feature different fare structures based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet it also entails steep living expenses. To mitigate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, allowing us to make significant savings on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an endeavor that would have been more challenging in private housing.
The vicinity of grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Living near essential retailers, like supermarkets and pharmacies, has proven to save time, particularly during exam seasons when every moment is precious.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural essence, providing a multitude of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that exude familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, filled with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London showcases its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling enclave of Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural wealth London has to offer.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural districts, its varied housing options, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of discovering your new home in this extraordinary city, and take full advantage of all it has to provide.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*