Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to leave a serene island in Spain for the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is an eclectic, multicultural, historic, and vibrant city, brimming with a vast selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration is an adventure! However, adjusting to life in a different country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained as an international student relocating to London, along with advice on what to do once you’re settled.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to research various areas of London. I uncovered Camden Town’s energetic nightlife, Hackney’s rising scene in east London, and Putney’s peaceful, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to beginning my Master’s, I toured these neighborhoods personally before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (whom I connected with during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to secure affordable house shares, arranged virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’re settled, an abundance of opportunities and events await – the challenge lies in selecting which activities to partake in and finding time for everything!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to visit, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into an energetic party featuring drinks and live music!
Aside from museums, I love exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The region is rich in historical and artistic landmarks, making it a delightful area to meander and uncover. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, which was developed on a former canning warehouse and now houses a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. It celebrates innovative manufacturing and features several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London offers numerous bargains if you know where to search, with many options for affordable yet superb food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with various deals across the city, making dining out easier on your budget.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for only £1 each! It’s an incredible deal, especially if you’re longing for the flavors of home seafood and wish to savor oysters to your heart’s (and wallet’s) satisfaction!
Tooting in South London is well-known for its vibrant food culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets providing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re desiring food that reminds you of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s rhythm is a key aspect of London’s allure, at times the Tube can become too noisy or the streets too congested. Fortunately, London boasts excellent train and coach connectivity, making it easy to escape the urban hustle for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are 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 a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer day trip.
In conclusion, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to discover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.