**Nine Months in London: A Student’s View on Residence and Accommodation**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I commenced my experience of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to understand and acclimatize to life in this lively, multicultural city. London is renowned not only for its iconic sites and cultural depth but also for its diverse accommodation choices and flourishing communities. For students, the city provides an array of options, including student residences and private housing, with ensuite or shared bathrooms, private or shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is generally simple. In contrast, international students commonly depend on resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to research potential lodgings online. These websites deliver comprehensive information regarding amenities and closeness to public transportation, making the search process more user-friendly.
### Discovering the Ideal Place to Reside
When I initiated my search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. Being near significant landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city’s excellent transportation infrastructure—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement between zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, with inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25 per day.
To cut down on travel expenditures, I preferred to walk short distances instead of depending on public transit. For longer trips, I discovered that using an Oyster card considerably lessened costs. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, providing more travel alternatives for those residing in outer zones.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails higher living expenses. To handle costs effectively, I opted to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student lodgings, as they presented the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
### Location of Necessities
For me, being close to grocery stores was a must-have aspect. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students looking to economize. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies proved invaluable, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Neighborhoods
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be a challenging endeavor, given the city’s expanse and diversity. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural essence, offering a vibrant array of neighbourhoods to explore. Numerous international students find themselves drawn to areas that echo the familiarity of their home nations.
For example, Southall in West London serves as a center for the South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Additionally, Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling enclave enriched with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural enclaves.
### Carving Your Niche in London
In the end, the best area to live in London relies on your individual desires and preferences. Whether you deem proximity to your university, affordability, or cultural familiarity as priorities, London caters to various needs. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its unique neighbourhoods, and fully enjoy the convenience and vitality this incredible metropolis has to offer.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*