Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating, yet the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is an energetic, diverse, and historic metropolis that boasts a multitude of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is always an adventure! Nevertheless, adapting to life in a foreign country can present its challenges. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions for 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 forums to investigate different areas of London. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is a rising district in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential zone.
After visiting London prior to commencing my Master’s program, I explored these neighborhoods in person before opting for Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized websites such as SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely apartment close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you are settled, a plethora of opportunities and events lie ahead—deciding which activities to partake in and finding time for them can be challenging!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, science, and manufacturing. Close by are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all fantastic places to explore. Some even remain open late on Fridays. The V&A organizes a V&A Late on the last Friday of every month, transforming the museum into a small rave complete with drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I like wandering through East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are abundant in history and artistic ventures, making them ideal for strolling and uncovering new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, situated on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup that constructs temporary structures using shipping containers. It celebrates creative manufacturing and hosts several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London has great deals if you know where to seek them out, with plenty of options for affordable yet delicious food. I’ve compiled a list of eateries with deals dispersed throughout the city, making dining out more economical.
One such place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters at just £1 each! It’s a fantastic deal, especially if you crave the taste of home seafood.
Tooting in South London is also noted for its vibrant food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets offering a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that reminds you of home, I highly suggest checking out these markets!
Taking a break from the hustle and bustle
While the rhythm of London is captivating, there are times when the Tube can be too noisy or the streets too crowded. Luckily, London has excellent connectivity via trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend.
My preferred places to visit are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England rich in history and student-friendly spots. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In summary, London is a lively city teeming with chances and places to discover, so take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
For more about my journey, read my Imperial story.