**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not appear as a significant duration, it has been ample time to impart several important lessons regarding life in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for the intricate tapestry of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city provides a multitude of housing alternatives, from student residences to private rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can easily organize in-person viewings, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover properties online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I started my hunt for a place to stay, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s outstanding transportation infrastructure—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates navigation across zones. However, traveling between zones can accumulate expenses, with daily fares climbing up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying heavily on public transit. For longer journeys, the Oyster card served as a budget-friendly option. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend past the Underground system, offering wider coverage. However, ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on the distance and the train operator involved.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails steep living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend who was also a university student. This decision greatly lowered our rental cost. Additionally, I decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that’s more challenging to establish in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another vital consideration in my decision-making. Familiar supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to cut costs. Living in proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies has been incredibly advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be perplexing. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural essence, offering a range of vibrant neighborhoods to discover. Many international students are drawn to areas that resonate with the familiarity of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional fashion stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. On the other hand, Chinatown in the heart of the West End presents a lively hub of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the rich cultural diversity that London has to offer.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in London hinges on your individual interests and priorities. Whether you’re exploring the city’s diverse accommodation choices, immersing yourself in its cultural districts, or simply relishing the benefits of urban living, London possesses something unique for everyone. My suggestion? Embrace the diversity, absorb the richness of the city, and capitalize on this extraordinary experience.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*