**Nine Months in London: A Student’s Insight on Housing and Lifestyle**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I began my adventure of residing in London. Although this time frame might not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is not just famous for its landmark sites and historical depth, but also for its multifaceted communities and vast array of housing possibilities. For students, the city presents numerous options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite bedrooms, shared facilities, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, international students find platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to be invaluable resources. These sites facilitate the exploration of potential housing options online, checking amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport connections.
### Discovering a Place to Call Home
In my quest for accommodation, I emphasized securing a room in Central London. It was vital for me to live near key attractions, social venues, and my university, Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. The city boasts an outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones.
To cut down on commuting expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer distances, the Oyster card proved to be a budget-friendly option for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside the central city. However, fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary based on distance and the pricing policies of the train operators.
Residing in Central London does entail a significant financial commitment. To alleviate costs, I opted to share a room with a fellow student. This arrangement greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that is harder to find in private rentals.
### Convenience of Essentials
For me, having grocery stores in proximity was essential. Some of the major supermarket chains in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-conscious options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to conserve funds. Having key stores and pharmacies close by is particularly advantageous during hectic times, like exam periods, when every moment counts.
### Picking the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is one of the toughest choices for students. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural character, providing a colorful mix of distinct neighbourhoods. Many international students tend to favor areas reminiscent of their homeland.
For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a lively area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods exemplify the cultural variety that London has to offer.
### Embracing Life in London
The ideal area for living in London ultimately hinges on your individual interests and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural districts or its modern conveniences, London has something appealing for everyone. As you embark on your search for a home, take the time to navigate the city’s varied accommodation options, immerse yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, and relish the thrill of residing in one of the most extraordinary cities globally.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*