**Living in London: Nine Months of Perspectives**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is famous not only for its varied housing options but also for the rich blend of communities residing within it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing alternatives, from student residences to privately rented properties. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, international students often depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine listings, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I started my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My intention was to remain near major landmarks, social gathering spots, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city boasts an outstanding transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between zones. However, moving between zones can be pricey, with daily costs sometimes reaching £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk short distances whenever feasible rather than depending on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card has been invaluable, providing discounted travel rates for students. In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to parts outside central London, though ticket prices differ based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers various advantages but also comes with elevated living expenses. To keep costs manageable, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This setup drastically reduced our rental costs. I also decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodation, desiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that might not have been as straightforward with private rentals.
The proximity to supermarkets was another vital aspect for me. Popular chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential stores and pharmacies has proven to be incredibly useful, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities are foundational to its cultural wealth, creating a variety of lively neighborhoods. Many international students are drawn to areas echoing their homelands. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. In contrast, Chinatown in the bustling West End serves as a lively hub of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the diversity that makes London exceptional.
In conclusion, the ideal area to live in London relies on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you’re investigating the city’s varied accommodation possibilities, diving into its cultural neighborhoods, or enjoying the convenience of its public transport system, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, richness, and thrill of this extraordinary city while searching for your new home.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*