**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I initiated my adventure of residing in London. Though this duration might not appear extensive, it has granted me the opportunity to acquire some significant perspectives on living in this dynamic city. London serves as a blend of cultures and communities, providing a wide range of housing alternatives for students. From student accommodations to private rentals, there’s a variety to suit everyone—whether it’s ensuite or shared facilities, private rooms, studio apartments, or shared houses. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually examine housing options, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
As I commenced my search for a residence, my objective was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and, most critically, the Imperial College campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. The remarkable transportation system—comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones. However, traversing between them can incur a hefty price, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card emerged as an economical option. Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into outer zones, although fares vary based on distance and the pricing framework of different train operators.
Residing in Central London presents its advantages but also comes with steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I decided to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with classmates from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—a blend that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to those wishing to economize. Living close to essential shops, including pharmacies, is especially beneficial during busy times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be tricky, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. Numerous international students flock to areas that echo their home culture. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Concurrently, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of London’s dynamic ethnic hubs.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London relies on your personal choices and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing options, cultural neighbourhoods, or the ease of its transportation links, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its unique communities, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*