### My Journey of Residing in London: Nine Months Later
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days prior, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me ample opportunity to gain insights about this bustling city. London is renowned not only for its wide range of housing options but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. For students, the city boasts an array of housing possibilities, which include student accommodations and private rentals. Choices vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. While local students can easily coordinate viewings, international scholars often depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties, review amenities, and evaluate distance from public transport—all while remaining in their current location.
When I initiated my quest for a residence, I was eager to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to major attractions, social areas, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College was essential to me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transport system—including the Underground (often called the Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs escalating to as high as £5.25. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter routes instead of using public transport. For longer journeys, I found that employing an Oyster card greatly diminished travel costs. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services broaden the city’s accessibility to regions beyond the central zones, though fares for these services differ based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a fellow student. This decision allowed us to significantly decrease our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was keen to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is often more challenging to locate in private rentals.
Another important aspect for me was being close to grocery stores. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are quite prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students with limited finances. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proved to be a time-saving asset, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London is a challenging endeavor. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities, each delivering a distinctive experience. For example, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End delivers a vibrant atmosphere with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods create a sense of belonging for international students seeking ties to their native cultures.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to the city’s diverse housing options, its cultural enclaves, or its accessible transport system, London offers something for everyone. Relish the city’s liveliness, discover its neighborhoods, and take full advantage of the remarkable opportunities it presents.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*