**Experiencing Life in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. While this duration might seem brief, it has been sufficient to acquire insightful experiences about living in this dynamic city. London stands as a center of diversity, not just regarding its inhabitants but also its housing alternatives. Students here have an abundance of choices, with various types of housing available, from student residences to private rentals. Options range from ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, to house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is simple, whereas international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites enable them to examine potential housing online, review the facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transport links.
When I initiated my search for accommodation, I centered my attention on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near significant landmarks, social scenes, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city is equipped with an exceptional transportation system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones.
To cut down on travel expenses—since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily—I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has proven invaluable, providing discounted fares for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond central London, with prices varying according to distance and the pricing strategy of the train operator.
However, residing in Central London comes with a substantial financial burden. To mitigate costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, since it presented an opportunity to engage with peers of diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a connection that can be harder to establish in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily found, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater well to students on a tight budget. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies has proven to be a significant timesaver, particularly during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task, considering the city’s vast cultural diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the West End, bustles with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods showcase the multicultural fabric of London.
In conclusion, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and necessities. Whether you’re looking for cultural resonance, closeness to your university, or cost-effectiveness, London presents a myriad of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its distinctive neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.
*By Guest Contributor*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*