**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Insights and Learnings**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Though it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insights about living in this energetic and diverse city. London is celebrated not only for its legendary landmarks and extensive history but also for its diverse housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a multitude of living arrangements, including student housing to private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and communal living.
For local students, scheduling an in-person visit to view an apartment is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and check locations in relation to public transport.
### Searching for a Home
When I commenced my accommodation search, I focused on securing a room in Central London, aiming to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, significantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—comprising the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates travel across these zones.
Nevertheless, the costs for transportation can accumulate quickly. For example, traveling between zones can result in expenses of up to £5.25 per day. To minimize costs, I chose to walk shorter routes instead of using public transportation. For longer journeys, the Oyster card provides discounted fare options, making it a budget-friendly option for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube system, linking outer zones with the city center; however, fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To better manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, which allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a social environment that is often challenging to find in private rentals.
### Significance of Location
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. London boasts a range of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students wanting to economize. Proximity to critical shops, like supermarkets and pharmacies, proves extremely practical, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Finding the Ideal Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood to reside in is a challenging endeavor due to London’s extensive and varied landscape. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural vibrancy, presenting a distinctive fusion of traditions, cuisines, and experiences.
For example, Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a lively area packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods offer international students a sense of comfort and linkage to their home cultures.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the optimal area to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural districts, the convenience of central areas, or the affordability of outer zones, London caters to all.
My time in London has been a rewarding journey, filled with a mix of challenges and opportunities. From discovering diverse housing options to engaging with vibrant communities, I have developed a deep appreciation for the unique charm of this extraordinary city.
If you are considering a move to London, embrace its diversity, delve into its cultural wealth, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement it provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*