Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe felt overwhelming. However, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London boasts a dynamic, multicultural, and historic atmosphere, showcasing numerous restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is always an adventure! Yet, adapting to a new country presents its challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions on what to do once you’ve settled down.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is securing the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to examine different London neighborhoods. I uncovered Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s emerging environment, and Putney’s tranquil, green setting.
After visiting London prior to my Master’s program, I explored these neighborhoods firsthand before selecting Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, set up online viewings, and secured a nice flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After settling in, a realm of possibilities is open – the challenge lies in choosing which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, industry, and science. Nearby, you will find the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all delightful to explore. Some even extend their hours on Fridays, featuring a V&A Late event with drinks and live music on the last Friday of each month.
Apart from museums, I like to explore East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These regions are rich in history and artistic endeavors, making them ideal for strolls. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, a creative center established in an old canning warehouse, housing a startup and several art studios, and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday was employed.
Dining out in London
London presents numerous bargains if you know where to hunt, offering a variety of alternatives for affordable yet high-quality food. I’ve put together a list of food venues with deals throughout the city.
One such venue is situated in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers features an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each – an excellent deal for seafood enthusiasts!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary culture, with Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market presenting an array of cuisines. If you’re searching for food that evokes memories of home, I highly endorse checking out these markets!
Escaping the city for a breather
While London’s vibrancy is part of its appeal, at times, the Tube and bustling streets can become overwhelming. Fortunately, London is well-linked by trains and coaches, making weekend getaways simple.
My preferred getaways are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a lovely medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s Wisley garden makes for a lovely outing, especially in summertime.
In summary, London is a lively city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to experience all it has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.