**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set out on my adventure of residing in London. Although it may seem like a brief period, it has provided me with valuable lessons about this lively and ever-changing city. London features not only a wide array of housing options but also a complex web of communities that contribute to its distinct character. For students, the city offers various housing alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite bedrooms, shared living, studio flats, and house shares.
For international students such as myself, platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are extremely helpful. These sites enable potential renters to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to transportation links. In contrast, domestic students often benefit from the ease of arranging in-person viewings.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
When I started my search, my main goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social venues, and my university campus at Imperial College was essential. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s remarkable transport network—comprising the Underground (or Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones.
Nonetheless, commuting expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I chose to walk short distances whenever feasible. For extended commutes, I utilized an Oyster card, which significantly lowers transportation costs for students. Beyond the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services spread out to regions beyond central London, though ticket prices differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London has its advantages but also its hurdles, especially the high living expenses. To cope with costs, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it provided the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that private rentals may not offer as readily.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was a crucial consideration. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland assist students keeping a close eye on expenses. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, proves especially convenient during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s expansiveness and variety. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a range of lively neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke the comfort of their home countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, is a thriving area packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods exemplify the cultural diversity that London has to offer.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London varies based on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you prefer the convenience of central locations, the cost-effectiveness of outer zones, or the cultural vibrancy of particular communities, London caters to all preferences.
As you search for your new abode in this extraordinary city, embrace the variety of housing options, delve into its cultural hubs, and relish the distinctive experiences that London presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*