**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences and Takeaways**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I settled in London, and while it may not seem like a lengthy period, it has provided ample opportunity to gain some important insights about life in this dynamic city. London is not only famous for its variety of housing options but also for the vibrant mix of communities that make it their home. For students, the city presents a wide array of living arrangements, including student residences and private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While home students can easily arrange in-person viewings, international students often depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport connections.
When I started my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being close to major sights, social venues, and Imperial College was my primary concern. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which simplifies getting around. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To minimize travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transportation. For longer journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with fares varying based on distance and the pricing models of the train operators.
Residing in Central London, however, comes with a significant financial strain. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rental costs. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve students looking to economize. Living near essential stores, including pharmacies, conserves time and proves especially helpful during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s remarkable diversity. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering distinctive neighbourhoods that celebrate their heritage. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal area for living in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodation possibilities, its cultural richness, or its convenience and vibrancy, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the process of discovering your new home and relish all that this extraordinary city provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*