**Residing in London: Insights from Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my experience of living in London. Though this duration may appear brief, it has provided me with significant insights into life within this dynamic city. London serves as a center for various communities and presents an extensive array of lodging options to cater to all preferences. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, the city offers selections from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students find booking apartment viewings to be hassle-free, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodation online, review amenities, and gauge distance to public transport.
As I initiated my search for a residence, my aim was to find a room in Central London. I wanted to remain near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card became a budget-friendly option. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching outer zones. Prices for these services depend on distance and the specific train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but the high cost of living is a downside. To manage my expenses, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that private housing might lack.
Having grocery stores nearby was another significant consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve those seeking affordability. Living close to essential stores, including pharmacies, was incredibly beneficial, particularly during intense exam periods when every second counts.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be a difficult choice, as the city’s diverse communities considerably enhance its cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that resonate with the comforts of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the rich cultural arenas London holds.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your personal tastes and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new abode in this vibrant city, welcome the variety of its accommodation choices, discover its cultural hubs, and relish the unmatched convenience and thrill that London brings.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*