**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
It has been nine months since I started my experience of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this energetic and multicultural city. London serves as a melting pot of various cultures and communities, presenting numerous housing options for students. From student residences to private leases, there are plentiful choices, such as ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, organizing apartment viewings is uncomplicated, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport options.
In my pursuit of a living arrangement, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. Being near main attractions, entertainment venues, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus was important to me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movements between zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can expense up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances to cut costs. For longer travels, the Oyster card provides economical transport solutions for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones. Fares for these services differ according to distance and the operating train company.
Residing in Central London brings its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing, seeking to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—a dynamic that proves more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another essential aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical options encompass Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in close proximity to vital stores and pharmacies has been a time-saver, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Deciding on the appropriate neighbourhood is a tough choice. The diverse ethnic communities of London are a vital aspect of its cultural tapestry, offering a plethora of neighbourhoods to discover. Many international students find solace in areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Alternatively, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling centre of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of London’s varied community neighbourhoods.
In the end, selecting the ideal area to call home in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural districts, closeness to your institution, or availability of necessary amenities, London has something for everyone. Celebrate the city’s diversity, investigate its vibrant neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*