Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, yet the past 18 months in London have proven to be exceptionally gratifying and enjoyable.
London is an eclectic, multicultural, historic, and lively metropolis, offering an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions. However, adapting to life in a new country can pose its challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, coupled with suggestions for easing into life here.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial phase of relocating to London is identifying the ideal residence. I leveraged Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate different neighborhoods across London. Camden Town is famous for its nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential zone.
Having visited London prior to beginning my Master’s, I checked out these neighborhoods firsthand before opting for Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, scheduled online viewings with landlords, and eventually secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’re settled, a plethora of opportunities and events lie ahead. The challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, you can visit the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to wander through, 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 vibrant event complete with drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I love exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are brimming with historical and artistic endeavors, making them perfect for strolling and uncovering new delights. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center established in an old canning warehouse, now hosting a startup that builds temporary structures using shipping containers. It also contains art studios and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents a plethora of deals if you know where to search, with abundant choices for budget-friendly yet scrumptious meals. I’ve curated a list of dining locations with excellent value throughout the city.
One such place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s an incredible offer, particularly if you have a longing for seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is famed for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re in search of dishes that remind you of home, I highly advise checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s vibrancy is a significant part of London’s allure, at times the Tube and bustling streets can feel overwhelming. Luckily, London boasts an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
All in all, London is a dynamic city filled with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my journey, read my Imperial story.