**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to impart several important lessons regarding life in this dynamic and diverse city. London is renowned not just for its famous landmarks and rich heritage but also for its vast range of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. For students, the city presents numerous housing alternatives, including student accommodations and private rentals. These options encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is relatively easy. On the other hand, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for possible housing online. These platforms offer comprehensive information about amenities, closeness to public transport, and other vital details, simplifying the process for those new to the city.
When I initiated my quest for a place to reside, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. This area attracted me because of its closeness to major attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s exceptional public transport system—including the Underground (or “tube”), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system provides discounted fares, making transportation more budget-friendly for students.
For those exploring outside Central London, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to locations beyond the Underground network. Prices for these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the pricing policies of the operating companies.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To keep costs in check, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also at university. This arrangement significantly lowered our rent. Furthermore, I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that can be more challenging to find in private housing.
Close proximity to grocery stores was another crucial element in my decision-making. Common supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical alternatives. Living near essential stores, including pharmacies, proved to be invaluable, especially during hectic exam periods when time is precious.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s vibrant cultural diversity is mirrored in its ethnic communities, each providing a distinct experience. For example, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Concurrently, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London relies on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural richness, or its convenience and vibrancy, London offers something for everyone. My time here has been an exploration, and I have grown to value the many dimensions of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*