Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural island in Spain to Europe’s most populous city was a significant challenge. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most fulfilling and enjoyable periods of my existence.
London is a vibrant, multicultural, historical, and dynamic metropolis boasting a plethora of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually a thrilling journey! However, acclimatizing to a new country can present difficulties. Here are some insights I gained from my move to London as an international student, along with some advice and recommendations for when you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate scholar
The initial phase of moving to London is identifying the ideal place to live. Utilizing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion boards, I investigated different neighborhoods throughout London that could be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town possesses a lively nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in east London, and Putney is a tranquil, leafy residential district.
I was fortunate enough to visit London before commencing my Master’s, which enabled me to explore these areas firsthand prior to making a decision on where to live. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized housing search websites such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate reasonably priced house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and eventually secured a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After settling in and personalizing your new place, a realm of possibilities and events lies ahead – the challenge in London lies in choosing which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a locale that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, one can find fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are delightful to explore, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a mini rave complete with drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I relish discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in history and artistic initiatives, making it a terrific place to stroll and uncover hidden gems. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on the site of an old canning warehouse, it now accommodates a startup focused on creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The site celebrates innovative manufacturing and features several art studios, as well as the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London abounds with bargains for those who know where to seek them, offering numerous options for affordable yet delicious food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with diverse deals across the city, making dining out more economical.
One establishment is located in South Kensington, where a seafood spot named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at only £1 each! This is an excellent offer, particularly if you’re longing for the taste of home seafood and can indulge in oysters to your heart’s (and purse’s) content!
Tooting in South London is equally famous for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets featuring a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of dishes that evoke nostalgia for home, I strongly recommend exploring the Tooting food markets!
Taking time away from the city
While the city’s heartbeat is integral to London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube can get too noisy or the streets too crowded. Fortunately, London is at the center of an extensive network of trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England brimming with history and friendly spots for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a delightful day out, particularly in the summer months.
Overall, London is a vibrant city teeming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my journey, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-emilio/" target="_