**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my venture of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, it has proven sufficient for acquiring significant perspectives on existence in this lively and varied city. London is not only famed for its extensive history and culture but also boasts a diverse array of housing options and the eclectic communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents a wealth of living arrangements, ranging from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
Home students generally find arranging apartment viewings to be quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to survey potential living spaces online. These sites offer information on amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other crucial factors, simplifying the relocation process for those coming from overseas.
### Securing a Place to Live
As I initiated my quest for accommodation, my priority was to find a room in Central London. My aim was proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core area. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs maxing out at £5.25.
To cut down on expenses, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer travels, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly choice. Furthermore, options such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, reaching outer zones. Although fares differ for these services, they offer a practical means of navigating the city.
Residing in Central London has its benefits, but it also entails increased living costs. To handle finances, I shared a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student housing, eager to bond with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—a dynamic more challenging to find in private rentals.
### Accessibility to Essentials
A key consideration for me was residing near markets. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly choices comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores and pharmacies in close proximity is extremely advantageous, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Diverse Communities
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can feel overwhelming due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities form an essential element of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that evoke familiarity from home.
For example, Southall in West London is notable for its significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End boasts a variety of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a fraction of London’s multicultural locales.
### Optimizing Your Experience in London
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you are captivated by the city’s cultural diversity, its convenience, or endless opportunities for adventure, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the variety of housing options, dive into the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods, and relish the thrill of life in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*