**My Nine-Month Adventure in London: Discoveries and Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of living in London. While this might not appear to be a substantial period, it has sufficed for me to collect some invaluable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not only recognized for its varied accommodation choices but also for the vibrant communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides an array of housing options, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing tends to be quite simple. Conversely, international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, I was eager to rent a room in Central London. Residing near major landmarks, social spots, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s superior transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation among zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport. Traveling between zones can rack up to £5.25 daily, but the Oyster card provides reduced fare options, especially for university travels. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Nonetheless, fares on these services fluctuate based on the distance and the pricing structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also steep living costs. To mitigate expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they offered an avenue to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—something more challenging with private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Proximity to essential stores, including pharmacies, is incredibly handy, particularly during bustling times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a place to reside in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural diversity and the distinct character of its neighbourhoods. London’s ethnic communities significantly enhance its cultural fabric, providing a sense of familiarity for international students.
For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a vibrant enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a sample of the cultural havens that make London so extraordinary.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal area to inhabit in London ultimately hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodation options, its cultural neighbourhoods, or its unmatched convenience, London holds something for everyone. My time here has been a voyage of discovery, and I’ve grown to cherish the richness and thrill this remarkable city has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*