**Residing in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not only varied in its selection of housing options but also in its communities, providing a distinctive experience for anyone who resides here. For students, the city offers a multitude of housing alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings for apartments is relatively easy. However, international scholars can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations online. These sites offer information regarding amenities, nearby public transport, and other crucial details, easing the process for those relocating from overseas.
### Discovering My Space in Central London
When I initiated my search for a living space, I concentrated on Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—ensures seamless commuting across the zones.
To economize on travel expenses, I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Traveling between zones can be as high as £5.25 daily, but the Oyster card options greatly lessen commuting costs for students. For extended distances, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside the central zones. However, fares for these services differ based on the distance and the fare schedule of the train operator.
Residing in Central London, although advantageous, involves high living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement not only lowered our rent but also enhanced our experience. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was an essential criterion. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also quite accessible. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies significantly conserves time, particularly during hectic periods such as exam season.
### Navigating the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting choice. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in its many ethnic communities, each presenting a distinctive vibe. Numerous international students are drawn to locales that offer a sense of familiarity and connection to their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End showcases an array of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
### Embracing London’s Variety
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London relies on your individual interests and necessities. Whether you are captivated by the city’s cultural diversity, its convenient transport facilities, or its energetic social environment, London presents opportunities for everyone.
As I contemplate my time here, I have grown to appreciate the diversity and the possibilities that London offers. From exploring its housing alternatives to immersing myself in its cultural enclaves, living in this extraordinary city has been an unforgettable journey.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*