**Residing in London: A Reflection After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Though this may seem like a brief period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather significant experiences about life in this bustling city. London is recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant multicultural communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing selections, from student accommodations to private rentals, including choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging apartment viewings is quite manageable. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover potential living arrangements online. These sites offer information about facilities, closeness to public transportation, and other critical details.
When I began my search for accommodation, my main focus was securing a room in Central London. Being near major attractions, lively social spots, and the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. The city boasts an exceptional transport network—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement between these zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To minimize travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking public transport. For university trips, the Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly choice.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the central zones. The fares for these services vary based on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of the respective train operator. While Central London grants unmatched access to attractions, it also comes with a hefty cost of living. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and age ranges—a diversity that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Having easy access to grocery stores was another priority for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies is especially helpful during busy times, such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its character, creating a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods illustrate just a fraction of the city’s cultural enclaves.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London is contingent on personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new residence or merely touring the city, London’s diverse housing opportunities and cultural depth render it an exhilarating place to inhabit. Embrace the vibrancy of the city, explore its distinctive neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and energy of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*