**Residing in London: Insights After Nine Months**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I began my adventure of residing in London, and although this might not appear to be an extended period, it has certainly provided me with valuable perspectives. London is an ever-changing and multicultural city, not only in terms of its housing options but also its lively communities. Students here are treated to many choices regarding living situations, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For local students, scheduling in-person apartment viewings is simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
As I initiated my search for accommodation, I targeted finding a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near the city’s key attractions, social centers, and crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has been an immense help, greatly reducing travel expenses for students. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, allowing access to areas outside Central London, though fares vary based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages but also considerable living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend who was also attending university. This choice not only made rent more manageable but also fostered a camaraderie in my living experience. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s tougher to find in private housing.
Closeness to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide significant savings. Living near essential stores, including pharmacies, turned out to be incredibly practical, particularly during exam times when time is of the essence.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expanse and variety. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a thriving South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the best place to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of Central London, the cultural vibrancy of its diverse communities, or the affordability of outer zones, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighbourhoods, and seize the opportunities this remarkable metropolis presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*