Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a countryside island in Spain to the largest city in Europe felt overwhelming, yet the last 18 months in London have been remarkably fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a rich, multicultural, historic, and lively metropolis with a wide array of dining options, events, and attractions – discovering it always feels like an adventure! Nevertheless, adapting to a new nation can be tough. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with advice on what to consider once you’ve made yourself at home.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the ideal place to settle. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to research different neighborhoods in London. I found that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is becoming a popular area in east London, while Putney offers a serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having previously visited London prior to pursuing my Master’s, I physically explored these neighborhoods before choosing Putney. My flatmates (whom I met in undergraduate studies) and I leveraged websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly shared accommodations, coordinated online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely apartment near Putney Heath.
Activities to engage in London
After you’ve settled in, a plethora of opportunities and events beckon – the real challenge in London lies in deciding which activities to engage in and managing your schedule for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis region, a neighborhood that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll encounter magnificent museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, and some extend their hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a festive environment with beverages and live performances!
Beyond museum visits, I relish discovering areas in East London such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich with historical and artistic landmarks, making it an excellent area to stroll and explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative space developed on an old canning facility, now home to a startup that constructs temporary structures using shipping containers. It fosters creative manufacturing and houses art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his research!
Dining out in London
London presents excellent food bargains if you know where to search. I have compiled a list of eateries that feature various deals throughout the city, making dining more budget-friendly.
One notable place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers serves an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for merely £1 each! It’s an incredible deal, especially if you crave the taste of seafood from home.
Tooting, located in South London, is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a wide range of cuisines. If you’re yearning for food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pulse is an integral part of London’s appeal, sometimes the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets overly congested. Thankfully, London boasts excellent connectivity via trains and coaches, making it easy to escape for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, abundant with history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
Overall, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take the time to explore everything it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my journeys, read my Imperial story.