**Life in London: My Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I started my adventure of residing in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, it has given me plenty of time to understand this lively city. London is renowned for its wide array of housing selections and the rich, varied communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of housing options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly organize in-person viewings, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
When I initiated my search for living arrangements, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. My aim was to be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an excellent transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement between these zones straightforward. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To economize on transport expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than depending on buses or the tube. For longer journeys, the Oyster card offers a more economical solution for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and specific train operators.
Residing in Central London brings benefits but also steep expenses. To keep costs manageable, I chose to share a room with a friend, which notably lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that would have been trickier to achieve with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more budget-conscious choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during exam seasons when time is scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task due to the city’s expanse and diversity. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its considerable South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods represent just a few examples of the city’s cultural enclaves.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new home or simply discovering the city, embrace the variety and vibrancy of London’s housing options, dive into its cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city offers.
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*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*