**Experiencing Life in London: Nine Months of Learnings and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has proven sufficient to acquire significant understanding of life in this lively and varied city. London is renowned not only for its iconic sites and rich heritage but also for its array of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a plethora of living arrangements, encompassing student housing and private rentals, with choices ranging from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling viewings for flats is relatively easy. In contrast, international students frequently depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to scout for potential living quarters online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other key characteristics, simplifying the search process for those relocating from different countries.
### Locating Your Home
As I commenced my quest for lodging, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Living near major attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a remarkable transportation system, encompassing the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates commuting across zones with relative ease.
Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal fares can reach as high as £5.25 daily. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has been invaluable, providing reduced fares for students. Apart from the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to outlying areas beyond the central zones, with ticket prices fluctuating based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Living in Central London comes with its advantages but also its drawbacks, especially the high living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This decision considerably lowered our rent. Furthermore, I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided a chance to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is more challenging with private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
One of my main focuses was finding a place close to grocery stores. London has a multitude of supermarket chains, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to cut costs. Being near essential shops and pharmacies was extremely helpful, particularly during exam times when every minute is precious.
### Picking the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be a formidable task, considering the city’s size and diversity. The ethnic communities within London are a vital aspect of its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of experiences. Numerous international students tend to settle in areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its considerable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a busy area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods represent just a fraction of the cultural wealth that London presents.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural hubs, its practicality, or its lively social atmosphere, London has offerings for everyone. My recommendation for those hunting for a residence in this remarkable city is to appreciate its diversity, explore its distinctive neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the opportunities it provides.
London is a city unlike any other, and these past nine months have been an exhilarating journey of learning, adjustment, and personal growth. I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more about this extraordinary city in the months ahead.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*