**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months have passed since I started my adventure of residing in London. Although it might not seem like a lengthy period, I have acquired some significant insights regarding life in this bustling city. London is renowned for its wide array of housing choices, along with its vibrant cultural communities. Particularly for students, there is an abundance of options available, ranging from student residences to private living spaces. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is effortless, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom for online accommodation exploration, to evaluate facilities, and consider proximity to public transport.
At the start of my quest for a living space, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain close to key landmarks, lively social scenes, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London comprises six concentric zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. The city features a superb transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can be costly, with daily expenses reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For university journeys, oyster card options notably decrease travel expenses. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground reach, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the train company operating them.
Nonetheless, residing in Central London comes with a hefty expense. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I chose to dwell in intercollegiate student accommodations since I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that would have proven more challenging in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more budget-conscious options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exam seasons, allowing for time savings on errands.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood is a demanding choice. The varied ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural makeup, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students look for familiarity and comfort within these cultural enclaves. For example, Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent a mere glimpse of the city’s diverse cultural fabric.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are on the hunt for a new residence or simply wandering through the city, appreciate the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and relish the conveniences and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*