**Insights from Nine Months in London: A Student’s Viewpoint**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Almost nine months ago, I set off on my adventure of residing in London. Though this duration may not appear extensive, it has been ample time for me to acquire several important lessons about life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its varied housing opportunities but also for the vibrant mosaic of communities that reside here. For students, the city provides an abundance of housing options, from student housing to private leases, encompassing ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite uncomplicated. Conversely, international students frequently depend on websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential accommodations over the internet. These platforms offer comprehensive information regarding facilities, nearness to public transport, and other crucial elements, simplifying the process for newcomers from overseas.
In my quest for a residence, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. I sought to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To reduce travel expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. For extended journeys, the Oyster card turned out to be a budget-friendly option.
Outside of the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the central zones, presenting additional travel possibilities. Nevertheless, fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific train operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers certain advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To balance costs, I opted to share a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement considerably lowered our rent. I decided to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s often rarer in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland appeal to students aiming to economize. Living in proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies has been a time-saver, particularly during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a fundamental role in its cultural fabric, presenting a plethora of distinctive neighbourhoods. Numerous international students tend to prefer areas that resonate with the culture of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its substantial South Asian population, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re navigating the city’s varied housing options or diving into its cultural neighborhoods, London presents a one-of-a-kind and thrilling experience. Embrace the diversity, convenience, and vibrancy of this extraordinary city as you seek your new residence.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*