### Insights After Nine Months of Residing in London
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I initiated my adventure of living in London. While it may not appear to be a substantial duration, it has provided me with meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for the vibrant tapestry of communities that reside here. For students, the city presents numerous housing alternatives, ranging from student residences to private leases. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to assess accommodations virtually. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial factors to take into account when selecting a residence.
### Searching for a Place to Call Home
When I started my quest for housing, my priority was securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, social centers, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system—including the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy navigation among the zones.
Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. To mitigate costs, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. For lengthier trips, I utilized an Oyster card, which grants discounted fares for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside of central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the particular train operator.
Living in Central London offers advantages but also entails elevated living expenses. To manage costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, substantially lowering our rent. I furthermore decided to reside in intercollegiate student housing, which enabled me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that’s less prevalent in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also readily accessible. Proximity to essential retailers, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time and energy, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighborhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, showcasing a range of lively neighborhoods. A number of international students gravitate toward areas that echo the culture and familiarity of their native countries.
For instance:
– **Southall** in West London boasts a large South Asian population, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton**, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture.
– **Chinatown**, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings.
These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural vibrancy that London presents.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal area to reside in London ultimately relies on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied housing selections, its cultural hubs, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the quest of locating your new home in this extraordinary city, and take full advantage of everything it provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*