**Musings on Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure in London, and while it may not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunities to glean valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London serves as a cultural fusion hub, presenting not just a variety of living options but also a vibrant mix of communities. For students, the city boasts a wealth of housing alternatives, ranging from accommodations tailored for students to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, communal living, studio flats, and shared homes.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse living options online. These resources furnish information about amenities, distance to public transport, and other vital details, simplifying the search process for newcomers from overseas.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
When I initiated my search for accommodations, my main goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social spots, and my university at Imperial College was crucial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones.
However, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low, as moving between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often walked shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card became invaluable, providing discounted travel rates for students. Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside central London, though fares can differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails higher living expenses. To manage costs, I chose to share a room with a friend, notably lowering our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as they presented opportunities to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to find with private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. London features a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to cut down on expenses. Being near essential stores and pharmacies turned out to be particularly advantageous during hectic times, like exam periods, when every moment counts.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be quite daunting given the city’s size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, providing a sense of comfort for international students.
For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean roots and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling area of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural abundance that London offers.
### Concluding Thoughts
In the end, the ideal living situation in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural spheres, its convenience, or its lively social atmosphere, London truly has something for everyone. As you embark on your quest for a new home, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options and immerse yourself in the distinctive experiences that London provides.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tags: Accommodation, Housing, London Life, Master’s*