**Living in London: A Nine-Month Review**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has sufficed for me to uncover valuable perspectives about life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its varied living arrangements but also for the intricate blend of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing alternatives, from student dormitories to private rentals, featuring options like ensuite and shared restrooms, as well as private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Booking apartment viewings is generally simple for local students, while international students can utilize sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse accommodations online. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, facilitating the process for newcomers to the city.
### Securing Your Home
When I initiated my search for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to key attractions, social hotspots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s robust transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies commuting between zones.
To economize on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of depending on public transportation. For longer trips, I discovered that using an Oyster card significantly lowered travel costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, providing broader coverage for those residing in outer zones.
Nevertheless, living in Central London carries a hefty cost. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to substantially reduce our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations since I aimed to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic that private rentals might lack.
### Accessibility to Essentials
One of my foremost priorities was residing near supermarkets. London boasts a range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies became a time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Cultural Diversity
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be challenging due to the city’s astonishing diversity. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a vast selection of neighbourhoods to discover.
For example, Southall in West London is home to a sizeable South Asian community, offering Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of the West End presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of belonging and community for international students seeking to connect with their cultural heritage.
### Locating Your Ideal Area
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its convenience, or its lively atmosphere, London has something to present to everyone.
As I contemplate my experiences here, I have grown to value the diversity and richness of London’s housing options and neighbourhoods. Embracing this diversity has enriched my journey considerably, and I am eager to continue exploring all that this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*