**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Though this might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a variety of cultures and communities but also a wide range of accommodation choices, catering to everyone’s needs. Students, in particular, have an abundance of options available, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling an in-person apartment viewing is a breeze, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing options virtually, review amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
As I initiated my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aspiration was to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb public transportation network—consisting of the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation between zones. However, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, potentially reaching £5.25 daily. To cut down on travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. For university commutes, the Oyster card has proven to be a transformative tool, considerably lowering expenses. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond central London, although fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of the train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages, but it also poses challenges, particularly concerning the steep cost of living. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a companion, which significantly decreased our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another critical element for me. London provides a wide selection of supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies was particularly beneficial, especially during exam seasons when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London may seem overwhelming. The city’s ethnic communities enhance its rich cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of distinctive neighbourhoods. Several international students are drawn to areas reminiscent of their homelands. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of the diverse communities that contribute to London’s charm.
In the end, the ideal location to live in London hinges on your personal interests and priorities. Whether you’re delving into accommodation options, immersing in cultural neighbourhoods, or simply relishing the energy of the city, London provides a distinctive and enriching experience. Embrace the diversity, ease, and excitement that this extraordinary city presents.
*By Guest Contributor*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*