**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insights on Housing and Living**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my venture of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has allowed me to gain some invaluable perspectives on life in this lively city. London is recognized not only for its varied accommodation alternatives but also for its multicultural societies. For students, the city presents a wide array of housing options, from student-centric accommodations to private rentals. These choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport links.
When I initiated my hunt for suitable accommodation, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. Being close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which simplifies travel between zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly; inter-zonal journeys may cost up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer trips, the Oyster card emerged as a budget-friendly alternative. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, with fares differing depending on distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London does entail a considerable expense, but I found ways to lower costs by sharing a room with a friend who was also a university student. This arrangement significantly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as it facilitated the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more difficult in private rentals.
Another crucial aspect for me was being situated near grocery stores. London boasts a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential stores and pharmacies is tremendously convenient, especially during hectic periods such as exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror the familiarity of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s charm.
Ultimately, the optimal living location in London is contingent on your preferences and priorities. Whether it’s closeness to your university, affordability, or cultural comfort, the city provides options for everyone. As you embark on your home search, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s accommodation choices, delve into its cultural neighbourhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*