Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have turned out to be the most fulfilling and enjoyable of my life.
London stands out as a multifaceted, multicultural, historic, and energetic city, boasting an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and sites to explore – each venture into the city feels like an adventure! Yet, adapting to a new country can pose its challenges. Below are some insights I gained as an international student settling in London, accompanied by advice and recommendations for a smooth transition.
Settling in London as a postgraduate student
The initial phase of relocating to London involves securing an appropriate place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and various online forums to investigate different neighborhoods across London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town is known for its lively nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in east London, while Putney is a tranquil and green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, which allowed me to explore these neighborhoods firsthand before making a decision on where to live. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I leveraged accommodation search websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, organized virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After settling in and personalizing your new space, a world brimming with opportunities and events beckons – the difficulty in London lies in deciding which activities to participate in and carving out time for each!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a neighborhood that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are exceptional museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums provide fantastic exploration opportunities, and some remain open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open celebration where the museum transforms into a lively gathering with drinks and live music!
Apart from museum visits, I also relish exploring East London districts like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is steeped in history and artistic initiatives, making it a fantastic area for strolls and discoveries. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on the site of an old canning warehouse, it currently hosts a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. This complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and accommodates several art studios, including the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides excellent deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for delicious yet affordable cuisine. During my stay in London, I’ve compiled a selection of dining spots that offer various bargains throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One notable establishment is in South Kensington, where you can find a seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers offering an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters at just £1 each! This is an incredible offer, particularly if you miss the taste of seafood from home and wish to indulge in oysters without breaking the bank!
Tooting in South London is also well-known for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets that present a wide array of cuisines. If you’re seeking food that evokes memories of home, I highly encourage you to check out the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s pace contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube can be overwhelming, or the streets are inundated with crowds. Luckily, London is well-connected with an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations to visit are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England teeming with history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a delightful day out, especially during the summer months.
In summary, London is a lively city rich with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to uncover all that the city has to offer during your journey at Imperial!
For more insights into my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-emilio/" target="_