### My Journey of Residing in London: Nine Months Later
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may appear brief, it has offered me numerous insightful lessons about life in this lively metropolis. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, there’s a wealth of housing choices to discover, ranging from student accommodations to privately rented places. These encompass ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These resources detail amenities, transport connections, and other vital information, facilitating easier planning.
### Searching for Accommodation
When I initiated my accommodation quest, I was particularly interested in renting a room in Central London. Being close to significant attractions, social centers, and my university at Imperial College was crucial. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—allowing effortless navigation across zones.
Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. To reduce costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system provides discounted travel options, making it a favored choice among students. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London, although fares differ based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, yet the high cost of living here is well-known. To keep expenses manageable, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This not only allowed us to save considerably on rent but also enhanced our experience. I selected intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that would have been more challenging in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was a must. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students wishing to economize. Having easy access to essential shops and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing the right area to live in London can be a daunting decision. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods that appeal to different tastes and preferences. A lot of international students are attracted to areas that evoke memories of home.
For instance, Southall in West London is noted for its substantial South Asian population, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music environment. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the rich cultural diversity that London has to offer.
### Closing Reflections
Ultimately, the ideal location to live in London is contingent on your personal requirements and interests. Whether you’re captivated by the city’s cultural districts, its practicality, or its limitless opportunities for adventure, London has something for everyone. My suggestion for anyone on the hunt for a home here is to embrace the variety, explore the richness of its neighborhoods, and relish the distinctive experience of dwelling in one of the world’s most thrilling cities.
*By Guest Contributor*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*