**Living in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to gather insightful experiences about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its variety of housing options but also for the rich diversity of communities that inhabit it. Students, in particular, enjoy a multitude of housing alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals. These options vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, organizing viewings for apartments is quite easy, while international students can depend on sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to research accommodations online. These platforms offer comprehensive information about amenities and accessibility to public transport, aiding in effective planning.
When I initiated my quest for housing, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. Living centrally provided proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is structured into six circular zones, with zones one and two representing the core. The remarkable transportation network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card turned out to be an economical choice.
London’s Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, encompassing regions outside the core zones. However, ticket prices vary based on distance and the fare structure set by the operating company. Although residing in Central London involves significant living costs, I effectively saved money by sharing a room with a friend. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which enabled us to engage with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an experience that can be difficult to find in private accommodations.
The availability of grocery stores was another crucial element in my decision-making process. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops and pharmacies proved to be extremely beneficial, particularly during exam seasons when time is limited.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to settle in areas that provide a sense of comfort. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas represent just a handful of London’s rich cultural locales.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on personal preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its ease of access, or its lively atmosphere, London has something for everyone. Embrace the variety of housing options, explore its distinct neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*