Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my existence.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic metropolis with an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is always an adventure! However, acclimating to life in a new nation can present obstacles. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with advice on what to do after you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is finding the appropriate place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to gather information on various London neighborhoods. I uncovered Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s developing scene in east London, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having been to London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally visited these areas before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (who I met during undergraduate studies) and I employed platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to search for reasonably priced house shares, organized online viewings, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to pursue in London
Once you’ve settled in, a plethora of opportunities and events beckons – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to partake in and making time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, showcasing art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, you’ll encounter the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, with some remaining open late on Fridays. The V&A even organizes a V&A Late on the last Friday of each month, turning the museum into a vibrant celebration with beverages and live music!
In addition to museums, I enjoy wandering through East London districts such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is steeped in history and artistic endeavors, creating a delightful environment to explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on an old canning warehouse, now home to a startup crafting structures from shipping containers. It celebrates innovative manufacturing and features art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his research!
Dining out in London
London provides numerous bargains if you know where to search, with ample options for affordable yet delicious cuisine. Throughout my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining spots offering great deals across the city.
One such place is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s an incredible offer, especially if you’re longing for seafood from home.
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets presenting a diverse selection of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that brings back memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the pace of London’s city life is part of its appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets too congested. Thankfully, London’s excellent train and coach infrastructure makes it convenient to escape the city for a weekend.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, rich in history and friendly for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a large botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer day trip.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to explore everything the city has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.