**Life in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to acquire some significant observations about existence in this lively city. London showcases a multitude of cultures and communities, along with a variety of housing options that serve a wide spectrum of tastes and budgets. For students, the selections are plentiful, including student housing and private rentals, with choices such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential lodgings online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities and access to public transport, enhancing the search experience.
When I initiated my search for accommodation, my main focus was securing a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and my university campus at Imperial College was crucial. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s exemplary transportation system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across these zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To cut down on transportation expenses, I chose to walk short distances whenever feasible. For longer trips, the Oyster card presents economical options for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing policy of the train operators.
Residing in Central London, while advantageous, entails a steep cost. To mitigate expenses, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This greatly decreased our rent costs. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something private rentals might not have provided as readily.
Another significant factor for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while cost-effective alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, especially during exam periods when every minute matters.
Choosing the ideal neighbourhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s rich cultural mixture is mirrored in its diverse ethnic communities, each presenting a distinctive experience. Many international students are inclined to settle in areas reminiscent of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few instances of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the conveniences of Central London, the budget-friendly outer zones, or the cultural richness of specific areas, the city has something for everyone. Embrace the variety of London’s housing options, delve into its cultural communities, and immerse yourself in the allure of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*