**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Overview**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nearly nine months ago, I began my experience of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, it has provided me with significant understanding of life in this dynamic city. London is not only recognized for its varied housing choices but also for its rich cultural landscape and flourishing communities. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, including student accommodations and private rentals, featuring choices such as ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is generally uncomplicated. In contrast, international students frequently turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find potential living arrangements online. These resources offer extensive details regarding amenities and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search process.
As I initiated my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial College campus was essential to me. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding public transportation system—including the Underground (commonly called the tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel between these zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to stroll short distances instead of depending on public transport. Traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, but utilizing an Oyster card greatly diminishes commuting costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend outside the central areas, offering greater connectivity. However, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of the operating companies.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also brings higher living expenses. To control costs, I chose to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, wishing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be challenging with private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near vital stores and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right area in London can be daunting due to the city’s enormity and variety. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural fabric, contributing a range of unique neighbourhoods. For example, Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of connection for international students looking to feel more at home with their cultural roots.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves, diverse housing options, or its convenience and vitality, London has something to cater to everyone. My recommendation? Embrace the diversity, discover the city’s richness, and take full advantage of this extraordinary place.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*