**Residing in London: A Student’s Insight**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Approximately nine months ago, I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be a significant duration, it has provided ample opportunity to discover various aspects of this dynamic city. London showcases not only a rich cultural mosaic and diverse communities but also an extensive array of housing alternatives for students. Whether you seek student accommodation or private leases, the selections are abundant, featuring ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling an apartment viewing is quite simple, whereas international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse housing options online. These platforms deliver information regarding amenities, accessibility to public transport, and other crucial details to assist students in making educated choices.
When I embarked on my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and, most critically, the Imperial College campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city’s outstanding transport system, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel between zones. Nevertheless, inter-zonal travel can set you back up to £5.25 per day, prompting me to walk shorter distances to conserve travel costs. For longer journeys, discounted Oyster card options have proved extremely helpful.
London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside the central zones. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the ticket pricing established by the train operator. Residing in Central London has its advantages, though it also entails increased living expenses. To keep costs down, I opted to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent.
I decided to reside in intercollegiate student residences, as I desired to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that would have been more difficult to attain in private accommodations.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential retail and pharmacies saves precious time, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural diversity. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror their home cultures. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Similarly, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas are merely a few examples of London’s multicultural landscape.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural enclaves or its central sites, London presents a plethora of options to accommodate every lifestyle. Embrace the diversity, delve into the neighbourhoods, and fully experience this remarkable city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*