**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some invaluable lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for the rich cultural fabric of its neighborhoods. For students, the city provides an extensive array of lodging options, from student residences to private lets. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily organize in-person property viewings, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover listings online, investigate amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
At the outset of my housing search, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the core zones being one and two. The city’s superior transport network—including the Underground (often referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly; inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 each day. To save on costs, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of using public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card proved invaluable, providing discounted fares for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, covering areas beyond the city center. Prices for these services differ according to distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages but also comes with steep living costs. To cope with expenses, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This setup greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that can be more challenging to find in private accommodations.
A notable consideration for me was being situated close to grocery stores. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices for students with limited finances. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly advantageous, especially during hectic times like exam sessions.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be complex, as the city is a mosaic of ethnic communities, each presenting its unique appeal. Numerous international students tend to choose areas that reflect the culture of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s rich diversity.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in London corresponds to your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, closeness to your university, or budget-friendly housing options, London caters to everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its lively neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*