**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be an extensive stretch of time, it has provided me sufficient opportunity to grasp several important lessons regarding existence in this dynamic metropolis. London is renowned not only for its extensive array of living options but also for the varied communities that reside within it. For students, the city presents a multitude of housing selections, ranging from student residences to private lettings. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, securing a flat viewing is fairly simple, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online. These sites offer information about amenities and proximity to public transport, thereby streamlining the search process.
### Locating a Residence
As I embarked on my quest, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. Proximity to prominent attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—including the Underground (or Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
Nonetheless, transportation expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, inter-zonal travel might cost up to £5.25 daily. To cut down on expenses, I frequently walked shorter distances rather than utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, I used an Oyster card, which provides student discounts on fares. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but it also comes with increased living costs. To control expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. Additionally, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that is more challenging to achieve in private living situations.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery shops was imperative. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies close by is incredibly helpful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Determining where to reside in London can be daunting, as each neighbourhood has its own distinct offerings. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural identity, forming a vibrant tapestry of varied areas. Many international students tend to gravitate towards neighbourhoods that embody their home country’s culture.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the very heart of London’s West End is a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the myriad cultural enclaves that London has to present.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal location to live in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural abundance, its varied living options, or its convenient transport connections, London has something to cater to everyone. My recommendation? Celebrate the diversity, navigate the distinctive neighbourhoods, and fully engage with the thrill that this exceptional city offers.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*