**Residing in London: Nine Months of Discoveries**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of living in London. Though it may not seem extensive, this time has allowed me to accumulate some significant lessons about life in this lively and diverse metropolis. London is celebrated not just for its deep history and famous landmarks but also for its myriad housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city provides a wealth of alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple, while international students can make use of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually explore living spaces. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search immensely.
### Securing a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search, my preference was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transit network, including the Underground (popularly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can rack up costs, potentially reaching £5.25 per day. To cut down on transport expenses, I chose to walk short distances whenever feasible. For longer journeys, I discovered that the Oyster card is a budget-friendly option for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, providing wider connectivity. Fares for these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the pricing scheme of the train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails heightened living expenses. To keep costs in check, I made the choice to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something more challenging to achieve through private rentals.
### Accessibility to Necessities
For me, residing close to grocery stores was essential. London features an array of supermarket choices, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to vital stores and pharmacies proved time-efficient, especially during exam periods when every moment is precious.
### Picking the Right Neighborhood
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be quite an overwhelming process, given the city’s immense scope and variety. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural essence, offering a rich array of experiences. Many international students gravitate toward locales that mirror the familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is predominantly home to a large South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the center of London’s West End presents a lively cluster of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods merely scratch the surface of the city’s multicultural centers.
### Celebrating London’s Diversity
In the end, the optimal place to live in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and needs. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, its vibrant social landscapes, or the practicality of residing near your university, London caters to all preferences.
As you embark on the quest for your new home in this extraordinary city, invest time in exploring its diverse housing options, engage with its rich cultural heritage, and savor the distinctive experiences that London has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*