**Living in London: Insights from Nine Months in the City**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this period might not appear significant, it has been sufficient to gather a wealth of knowledge about this lively and multicultural metropolis. London is renowned not only for its historical depth and famous sites but also for its diverse housing options and cultural communities. For students, the city presents a plethora of possibilities, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is relatively simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to scout for their future homes online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search process considerably.
As I kicked off my quest for living arrangements, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The robust transportation system, comprising the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To save on transportation expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. For longer distances, the Oyster card provides considerable savings for students.
Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and specific train operators. While residing in Central London offers convenience and easy access to attractions, it also comes with elevated living expenses. To lessen costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rental obligations.
I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges. This type of social atmosphere would have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
Another important consideration for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland, proved to be highly beneficial. Being close to essential stores and pharmacies saved precious time, particularly during exam seasons when every second matters.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city’s ethnic communities contribute a unique richness to its cultural fabric. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their home countries’ familiarity. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of London’s varied enclaves.
Ultimately, the optimal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural vibrancy of ethnic neighborhoods or the practicality of central locations, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its rich cultural tapestry, and seize the remarkable opportunities it presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*