**Nine Months in London: Insights from a Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been ample time for me to acquire meaningful understanding of life in this lively city. London is celebrated not only for its diverse array of housing options but also for the rich cultural diversity of its neighborhoods. For students, the city presents a wealth of housing alternatives, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an in-person viewing of an apartment is fairly simple. However, international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for properties online. These platforms offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, distance to public transport, and other crucial information, enhancing the process for those relocating from abroad.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, my primary focus was to secure a room in Central London. Being near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. The city boasts a superb transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy travel between zones. Nonetheless, costs for traveling between zones can add up, with daily expenses soaring to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For lengthier journeys, the Oyster card provides reduced travel fares, making it a sensible choice for students.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the central zones. Although fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and operator, they offer an efficient means of exploring the city’s peripheries. That said, residing in Central London comes with significant expenses. To control costs, I decided to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they enabled me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a dynamic that can be harder to find in private rentals.
Another important consideration for me was the convenience of shopping for groceries. Living near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily chores far more manageable. Budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland proved to be particularly beneficial. Having essential shops and pharmacies nearby is especially useful during hectic times, such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities form a fundamental part of its cultural essence, presenting a range of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke the comfort of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a small sample of the diverse communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of specific areas, the convenience of central spots, or the affordability of outer zones, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the variety of the city’s housing options, discover its cultural hotspots, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*