**Nine Months in London: Lessons Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear extensive, it has provided me with ample lessons about this lively and varied city. London is not just abundant in culture and history but also presents a plethora of living options and dynamic communities. For students, the city offers a multitude of selections, from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite rooms, shared living, studio flats, and house shares.
For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is generally uncomplicated, but international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to search for their future residences online. These platforms offer insights into amenities, transport links, and other critical information.
### Locating a Home Base
When I started my hunt for accommodation, my emphasis was on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to prominent attractions, social centres, and the campus of Imperial College was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s superb transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of opting for public transport. For longer travels, the Oyster card was invaluable, providing discounted fares for students. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although prices vary based on distance and the train service.
Residing in Central London can be quite expensive. To mitigate costs, I made the choice to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing, as it created opportunities to connect with classmates from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—something less achievable with private rentals.
### Access to Essential Services
For me, being close to grocery stores was crucial. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to budget-conscious students. The convenience of being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exams, saving both time and effort.
### Discovering London’s Varied Communities
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s cultural richness. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that evoke familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers.
In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling environment with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the myriad cultural enclaves that make London special.
### Discovering Your Ideal Location
In the end, the perfect place to live in London is contingent upon your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are interested in the city’s cultural abundance, its varied housing options, or the ease of its transport systems, London has something to offer for everyone.
Reflecting on my time here, I have grown to cherish the city’s diversity, vibrancy, and opportunities. For anyone on the hunt for a home in London, I encourage you to immerse yourself in its lively communities, uncover its cultural gems, and take full advantage of everything this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*