Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe proved to be a significant undertaking, but the last 18 months in London have been tremendously fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is an eclectic, multicultural, historic, and lively metropolis boasting an array of eateries, events, and attractions—venturing through it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign nation can be tough. Below are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with advice on how to acclimate.
Relocating to London as a master’s student
The initial task in relocating to London is securing the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion boards to explore various neighborhoods within London. I learned about Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s budding scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
After having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I explored these areas firsthand before selecting Putney. My flatmates (from undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable shared accommodations, arranged online tours, and ultimately discovered a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve got settled, an abundance of opportunities beckons—deciding which activities to engage in and managing time for them is the real challenge!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, a hub for art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby are the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A Museum, all fantastic to explore, with some remaining open late on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late event on the last Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a lively gathering featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I relish discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These locales are steeped in history and artistic initiatives, making them ideal for unexpected discoveries. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, constructed on an old canning warehouse and currently home to a startup crafting temporary structures using shipping containers. It celebrates creative manufacturing and features art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London presents opportunities for great deals if you know where to seek, offering numerous choices for affordable yet delicious meals. I’ve put together a compilation of eateries with deals throughout the city, making dining more economical.
One such locale is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour offering oysters for just £1 each—a fantastic bargain, particularly if you long for the taste of home seafood!
South London’s Tooting is renowned for its food scene, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I strongly suggest investigating Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a retreat from the city
While the pace of London is captivating, there are times when the Tube and crowded streets can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, London’s superb train and coach network allows for easy escapes from the city for the weekend.
My preferred retreats are in Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town located in southern England, rich in history and favorable for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s Wisley garden offers a delightful outing, especially during summer.
All in all, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so make sure to take the time to unearth everything it has to offer throughout your stay at Imperial!
For more information about my experiences, read my Imperial story.