**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Experience**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months back, I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient to gain insights about this dynamic city. London stands out not just for its diverse communities but also for its wide-ranging housing possibilities, catering to all tastes. Particularly for students, there’s an array of options available, from student accommodations to private rentals. These choices encompass ensuite and shared facilities, private and communal rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, arranging an apartment viewing is easy, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When I commenced my hunt for housing, I prioritized securing a room in Central London to remain near prominent sights, nightlife, and my university, Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. The exceptional transportation system—which includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates swift travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can incur daily costs of up to £5.25, thus I chose to walk shorter distances in order to economize. For lengthier commutes, the Oyster card presents budget-friendly travel choices for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to locales beyond the central zones, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and the specific train operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers numerous advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. To control costs, I opted to share a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, as it allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is more challenging with private housing.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another significant aspect for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time and proves especially handy during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city’s ethnic communities contribute to its rich cultural tapestry. Many international students are drawn to areas that evoke familiarity from home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, offering a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the city’s numerous diverse enclaves.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent on your unique interests and necessities. Whether you’re examining the city’s broad accommodation choices or engaging in its cultural richness, London provides a distinctive and thrilling adventure. Embrace the vibrancy of its neighborhoods, relish the convenience of its transport connections, and take full advantage of this extraordinary city.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s*