**Nine Months in London: Insights Gained**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. While this timeframe may appear brief, it has sufficiently allowed me to acquire significant perspectives on living in this vibrant metropolis. London is recognized not just for its extensive history and cultural dynamism but also for its varied housing options and flourishing communities. For students, the city presents a multitude of living arrangements, from student housing to private leases. Choices consist of ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily schedule in-person tours, international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider accessibility to public transit.
When I initiated my quest for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near key attractions, social centers, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The extensive public transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates smooth travel across the zones. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transit. For longer journeys, I discovered that using an Oyster card considerably lowered travel expenses. In addition, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, serving areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but entails high living expenses. To alleviate costs, I elected to share a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. This arrangement enabled us to significantly cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I aimed to connect with peers from a range of backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that private rentals might not provide.
Closeness to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential retailers and pharmacies turned out to be a time-saver, particularly during hectic periods like exam time.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London is a daunting yet thrilling task. The city’s diverse communities are an essential component of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich amalgamation of traditions and cuisines. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror their home cultures. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a few of London’s cultural hubs.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s varied housing options, its cultural diversity, or the ease of its transport connections, London provides something for everyone. Embrace the experience of discovering your perfect home and savor the one-of-a-kind adventures this extraordinary city has in store.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*