**Residing in London: Nine Months of Experiences**
*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 been sufficient to acquire profound experiences regarding life in this dynamic city. London is rich in cultural diversity and communities as well as a plethora of housing options, making it an appealing location for students to establish themselves. Whether you’re searching for student accommodations or private leases, the city presents a wide array of options, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, setting up apartment viewings is simple, while international students can take advantage of sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check out properties online. These websites offer information about facilities and closeness to public transport, making the moving process more organized.
### Locating a Residence
When I initiated my accommodation hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Being in proximity to key landmarks, social areas, and my university, Imperial College, was essential for me. London is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city’s superb transportation network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across zones.
To cut down on travel expenses, I preferred walking shorter distances over using public transport. Traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, but alternatives like the Oyster card significantly lessen commuting costs for students. For extended trips, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Nonetheless, fare prices for these services differ depending on distance and train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also brings along elevated living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a friend, leading to substantial savings on rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations, as they provided opportunities to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect more difficult to find with private rentals.
### Access to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater to students aiming to save funds. Proximity to essential shops, including pharmacies, is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing a neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that resonate with the familiarity of their home countries. For example:
– **Southall** in West London is recognized for its large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores.
– **Brixton**, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene.
– **Chinatown**, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area characterized by Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities.
These neighbourhoods represent just a glimpse of the cultural enclaves that render London so distinctive.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and values. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural richness, its efficient transportation system, or its lively communities, London caters to all. As you embark on your quest for a new home, take in the diversity of housing options, delve into the city’s vibrant cultural landscape, and relish the thrill of living in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.
**By Guest Blogger**
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*