**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. Though it may appear brief, this period has sufficed to acquire significant perspectives about life in this dynamic city. London is not only famous for its extensive range of housing options but also for the multicultural communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a variety of housing alternatives, including student accommodations, private rentals, with options for ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an in-person apartment viewing is quite straightforward. Meanwhile, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential houses online. These platforms offer information on amenities and distance to public transit, facilitating the search for those arriving from overseas.
### Discovering a Home
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London. My goal was to be near major landmarks, social centers, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a robust transportation system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move between zones.
To cut travel expenses—given that inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day—I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transit. For extended journeys, the Oyster card provides cheaper travel options for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Nonetheless, fares for these services differ based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London presents both advantages and challenges, particularly the elevated cost of living. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as it fostered connections with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an interaction that private housing might lack.
### Close to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. London presents an array of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also readily available. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is extremely convenient, especially during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Picking the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be an overwhelming endeavor due to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its character, offering distinctive neighborhoods that showcase their cultural heritage.
For instance, Southall in West London is populated by a significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide a sense of familiarity and connection for international students looking to engage with their cultural roots.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, closeness to your university, or access to important amenities, London has something to offer everyone.
As you seek a home in this remarkable city, take the time to explore its diverse housing choices, immerse yourself in its cultural wealth, and appreciate the convenience and excitement that London holds.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*