**Residing in London: Insights from Nine Months in the City**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months ago, I embarked on my adventure of residing in London. While this timeframe might not appear extensive, it has been ample for me to discover and engage with a plethora of experiences within this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its rich and diverse communities. For students, the city presents a wealth of accommodation choices, from student-focused residences to private rentals. These range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly easy, but international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online. These platforms offer information about amenities, transportation access, and other critical details, simplifying the process for those new to the city.
### Searching for Accommodations
As I started my hunt, my focus was on finding a room in Central London. Being near major landmarks, social hotspots, and my university at Imperial College was crucial to me. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. The city boasts an excellent transport network, including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel between zones.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs climbing up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system provides discounted travel options, which are particularly advantageous for students. Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions outside the central zones, though fares can differ based on distance and train operator.
Living in Central London has its advantages but also entails higher costs. To keep expenses in check, I decided to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. Additionally, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, providing an opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a social atmosphere often absent in private rentals.
### Importance of Proximity to Essentials
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. London offers a variety of supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near these shops and pharmacies conserves valuable time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Ideal Neighbourhood
Choosing a neighbourhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities form the foundation of its cultural vibrancy, presenting a multitude of diverse areas to discover. Numerous international students find themselves drawn to neighbourhoods that resonate with the culture and familiarity of their home countries.
For example, Southall in West London is famed for its significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End offers an engaging experience with its variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a glimpse into the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s exceptional character.
### Concluding Thoughts
Ultimately, the finest area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied accommodation choices, its cultural neighbourhoods, or its convenience and connectivity, London has something for everyone. My recommendation for anyone seeking a home here is to appreciate the city’s diversity, delve into its rich cultural fabric, and embrace the thrill of living in one of the globe’s most extraordinary cities.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*