**Residing in London: Nine Months of Observations**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might seem brief, it has been sufficient to absorb and appreciate the distinct vitality of this city. London is not only famous for its wide range of housing options but also for the multicultural neighborhoods that inhabit it. Students, in particular, have an abundance of choices regarding their accommodation. From student residences to private rentals, the spectrum includes ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is seamless, while international students can depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for a place to stay, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. The city’s superb transportation system, featuring the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to opt for walking shorter distances to minimize transport expenses. For longer journeys, an Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly choice. Besides the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond central London, though fares differ based on the distance and train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To economize, I shared a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that might not be available in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more budget-conscious alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, including pharmacies, is particularly handy during hectic periods like exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic groups enhance its cultural richness, presenting numerous neighborhoods to discover. Many international students find themselves drawn to areas that evoke feelings of home. For example, Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is an active center of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of London’s cultural enclaves.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re seeking a new home or simply wandering through, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation choices, immerse yourself in its cultural communities, and relish the convenience and allure of this remarkable city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*