**Nine Months in London: Valuable Insights**
*Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I started my adventure living in London. Although this timeframe may not appear to be extensive, it has been sufficient for me to acquire significant knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its varied accommodation possibilities but also for the intricate cultural mosaic of its neighborhoods. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, securing an apartment viewing is relatively easy, while international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms enable prospective renters to browse properties online, check available amenities, and evaluate their proximity to public transportation options.
### Locating Suitable Accommodation
As I commenced my search, my main objective was to find a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, vibrant social areas, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy travel between zones.
Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be costly, with daily expenses reaching up to £5.25. To economize on commuting, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. For longer journeys, an Oyster card proved to be an economical choice. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. The fares for these services differ based on the distance and fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers its advantages but also comes with elevated living costs. To manage my expenses, I chose to share a room with a friend, which greatly reduced our rent. I also settled for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic often harder to achieve in private rentals.
### Essential Proximity
For me, being near grocery stores was a major concern. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those looking to save. Being close to essential shops, including pharmacies, is especially convenient during exam seasons when every minute counts.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s immense diversity. London’s ethnic groups are fundamental to its cultural wealth, presenting an array of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of belonging.
For instance, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End showcases an assortment of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a few of the city’s cultural enclaves.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the most suitable place to live in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s varied accommodation choices, its cultural neighborhoods, or the ease of its transportation links, London has something for everyone. My tip? Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its rich cultural landscape, and fully indulge in the excitement this extraordinary metropolis has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*