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 spent in London have proven to be the most fulfilling and enjoyable period of my life.
London is a rich, multicultural, historic, and lively city, boasting an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is always an exciting journey! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can present its challenges. Here are some insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with tips and advice for acclimating.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial phase of relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to settle. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various neighborhoods throughout London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I found out that Camden Town offers a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney is a tranquil, green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which allowed me to check out these neighborhoods firsthand before deciding on a place to stay. After selecting Putney, my housemates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I employed accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a pleasant flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled down, an array of opportunities and events awaits you—residing in London means selecting from countless activities and making time for each one!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, a neighborhood that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by, there is an array of fantastic museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are amazing to visit, and some even have extended hours on Fridays. On the final Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into a mini rave with beverages and live music!
In addition to checking out museums, I relish exploring areas in East London such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The region is rich with historical elements and artistic initiatives, making it a delightful area to roam and uncover. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf—established on an old canning factory, it now accommodates a Series B startup creating temporary installations from shipping containers. The complex honors creative manufacturing and features several art studios, in addition to the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining in London
London offers fantastic deals if you know where to find them, with numerous options for affordable yet excellent dining. During my time in London, I have compiled a list of eateries with various bargains throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One of these establishments is located in South Kensington, where an incredible seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to enjoy oysters for merely £1 each! This is a fantastic offer, particularly if you crave the flavors of home-cooked seafood and wish to indulge in oysters without overspending!
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 offer a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re searching for food that brings back memories of home, I highly suggest exploring Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, at times the Tube can become excessively loud, the streets excessively crowded, and the throngs can feel overwhelming. Luckily, London sits at the center of an excellent network of trains and coaches, facilitating easy getaways from the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is an exquisite medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, which makes for a delightful day trip, especially during summer.
Overall, London is a dynamic city teeming with opportunities and sites to discover, so take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more information about my experiences, read my Imperial story.