**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, it has been sufficient to impart several important lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its extensive and multicultural communities. For students, the city provides plentiful options, from university residences to private lodgings, accommodating various preferences such as ensuite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. However, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to scout potential residences online. These platforms offer comprehensive information about amenities, proximity to public transportation, and other crucial details, streamlining the planning process.
### Locating a Place to Call Home
As I began my accommodation search, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to reside near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts a superb transportation network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between these zones.
Nevertheless, transportation expenses can accumulate rapidly. For example, inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 per day. To save costs, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card became invaluable, providing discounted travel fares for students. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the operator’s pricing structure.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a university friend. This decision significantly lowered our rent. I preferred to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that is often harder to find in private rentals.
### Proximity to Essentials
For me, residing near grocery stores was crucial. Some of the most popular supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also favored. Being close to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, has proven incredibly convenient, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their home.
For instance, Southall in West London is known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End offers a vibrant atmosphere with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent only a fragment of the cultural richness that London offers.
### Embracing London
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re exploring the city’s varied housing options, engaging in its cultural enclaves, or relishing the convenience of its excellent transportation system, London has something to suit everyone.
Living in this extraordinary city has been a rewarding experience, and I eagerly anticipate uncovering even more of what it has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s*