**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Evaluation**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly sufficed to acquire significant perspectives on life within this lively and multifaceted city. London is renowned not only for its landmark sites and cultural vibrancy but also for its diverse housing options and bustling communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of living arrangements, ranging from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing for an apartment is relatively simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to navigate potential living options online. These websites offer insights into amenities, accessibility to public transit, and other vital details, easing the search process.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social centers, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel across zones.
In order to economize on travel expenses—inter-zonal journeys can accumulate to £5.25 daily—I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For longer travel, the Oyster card provides reduced fares, making it a budget-friendly choice for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of central London, though ticket prices fluctuate depending on distance and the particular train service.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails a hefty cost. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that may not have been as readily available in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students looking to economize. Proximity to necessary stores and pharmacies proved particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods, conserving both time and energy.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is quite a challenge. The city’s rich cultural variety is mirrored in its distinct ethnic enclaves, each providing a unique experience. Numerous international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of London’s multicultural fabric.
### Making the Most of London
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its efficient transport links, or its varied accommodation choices, London has offerings for everyone.
As I reflect on my experiences here, I have grown to admire the city’s distinct combination of history, modernity, and cultural depth. For anyone about to embark on their own journey in London, I encourage you to delve into its vibrant neighbourhoods, embrace its diversity, and fully experience this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*