**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my experience of residing in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing selections, from student accommodations to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. While domestic students can effortlessly set up in-person apartment viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is sectioned into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most centralized. The city’s outstanding public transport network—including the underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances to minimize travel expenses. For longer journeys, the Oyster card offers economical choices for students. Beyond the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the central zones, with rates differing based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London does carry a steep cost, but I reduced expenses by sharing a room with a friend who was also enrolled at university. This arrangement greatly diminished our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that private rentals might not provide.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. London boasts a variety of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Living near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, proved to be a time-saver, particularly during busy times like exam periods.
Choosing the ideal neighbourhood in London can be tough, given the city’s abundant cultural diversity. Many international students are attracted to areas that reflect the comforts of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s cultural enclaves.
In the end, the best place to reside in London hinges on your personal inclinations and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation choices, its cultural vibrancy, or its practicality, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the adventure of finding your new home, explore the city’s distinctive neighborhoods, and dive into the excitement of this remarkable place.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*