Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have been exceptionally fulfilling and enjoyable.
London is a multicultural, historic, and lively city that boasts numerous restaurants, events, and attractions – each exploration is a fresh adventure! Nevertheless, adapting to life in a foreign country can prove challenging. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with a few suggestions on what to do once you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to research various neighborhoods in London. I discovered Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s budding scene, and Putney’s tranquil, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London before commencing my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods prior to choosing Putney. My flatmates (from undergrad) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to secure budget-friendly house shares, coordinated online viewings, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve made yourself at home, a plethora of opportunities and events await – the challenge in London lies in deciding which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by, you’ll encounter the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These venues are delightful to visit, and several remain open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a vibrant event with drinks and live music!
Aside from museums, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These locales are rich in history and creative projects, making them ideal for strolling and uncovering hidden treasures. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, situated on a former canning warehouse site, now home to a startup innovating temporary structures utilizing shipping containers. It’s a center of creative manufacturing with art studios and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his research!
Dining out in London
London offers incredible deals if you know where to search, with an abundance of options for affordable yet delicious food. I’ve put together a list of dining spots with bargains across the city, making meals out more economical.
One such place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers serves an Oyster Happy Hour featuring oysters for only £1 each! It’s an amazing deal, particularly if you’re nostalgic for the flavor of home seafood.
Tooting in South London is also famed for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets showcasing diverse cuisines. If you’re longing for a taste from home, I highly recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s tempo contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets overly congested. Fortunately, London is centrally located within an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it convenient to escape for a weekend.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
All in all, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and sites to discover, so take your time to uncover everything it offers while you study at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.