**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on the adventure of residing in London. While this time frame may seem brief, it has provided me with valuable insights into this dynamic city. London boasts not only a rich tapestry of culture and communities but also a wide array of housing choices. Students here have an abundance of options, spanning from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and communal living. For domestic students, securing apartment viewings is fairly uncomplicated, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to sift through properties online, examine features, and evaluate access to public transport.
When I initiated my accommodation search, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My aim was to be near prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s superb public transport system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement between these zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For extended journeys, the Oyster card proved invaluable, greatly lowering travel expenses. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, linking outer zones to the city center, although fares differ based on distance and service provider.
Living in Central London entails high living expenses. To help manage costs, I chose to share a room with a friend also attending university. This collaboration allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, as I wanted to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something private housing might not have provided.
Access to grocery stores was another vital aspect of my decision-making process. London hosts a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops and pharmacies has proven to be extremely convenient, particularly during hectic periods like exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood for living in London can be daunting, given the city’s enormity and diversity. The ethnic communities in London are a cornerstone of its cultural fabric, providing distinctive experiences across different locales. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods offer familiarity and a sense of belonging for numerous international students.
In the end, determining the best place to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its contemporary conveniences, London presents a rich array of experiences. Embrace its diversity, explore your alternatives, and fully engage with this extraordinary city.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*