**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. Although this duration may seem brief, it has provided me with several important insights about life in this dynamic and multicultural city. London not only presents a variety of housing choices but also boasts a rich diversity of communities that contribute to its distinctive living experience. For students, the metropolis offers a plethora of options, ranging from student housing to private lodgings, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, securing an apartment viewing is relatively uncomplicated. Conversely, for international students, resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom prove to be invaluable. These platforms enable potential renters to investigate accommodations online, view the amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport connections.
### Securing Accommodation
At the outset of my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones.
Nevertheless, inter-zonal travel can incur significant costs, with daily expenses escalating to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer journeys, the Oyster card system considerably cuts down travel costs for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, covering regions beyond Central London. Charges for these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of the respective train operators.
Living in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. To manage costs, I made the decision to share a room with a friend who was also studying at university. This arrangement allowed us to substantially reduce our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I wanted to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been less feasible in private housing.
### Accessibility to Essentials
For me, being close to grocery shops was a top priority. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options feature Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like grocery outlets and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, especially during busy times such as exams.
### Selecting the Right Area
Choosing an area in London is no simple feat. The city’s various ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a range of unique neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror the culture of their native countries.
For instance, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling neighborhood filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the eclectic neighborhoods that make London truly extraordinary.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new abode or delving into cultural neighborhoods, London’s diversity and richness provide something for every individual. Embrace the city’s lively accommodation selections, immerse in its multicultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable metropolis.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*