### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my experience of residing in London. Although it might not seem like an extensive period, it’s been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is renowned for its varied housing options as well as its multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a wealth of accommodation possibilities, from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private bedrooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. While domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings of apartments, international students often depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
### Securing Living Arrangements
At the outset of my accommodation search, I aimed to locate a room in Central London. Being near popular attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy commuting across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option.
For those needing to travel beyond the Underground system, London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones. Fares for these services differ based on the distance and the pricing model of the respective operator. Nonetheless, residing in Central London carries a hefty price tag. To keep costs manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to meet classmates from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that is more challenging to find in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
Being situated near grocery stores was a must-have for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students with tight budgets. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Deciding on the right neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s diverse communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, revealing a rich assortment of areas to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward neighborhoods that mirror the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the core of London’s West End presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of the numerous cultural centers London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing selections, its cultural enclaves, or the convenience of being close to essential services, London has something that appeals to everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the richness of its neighborhoods, and fully enjoy your time in this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*