Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural Spanish island to the largest city in Europe was a significant challenge. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling period of my existence.
London stands as a varied, multicultural, historic, and lively metropolis boasting an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign land can be quite demanding. Here are some insights I’ve gathered while moving to London as an international student, along with some advice on what to do once you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal place to call your home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I researched different neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town offers a bustling nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming sector of east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential area.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which gave me the chance to personally explore these neighborhoods before making my housing decision. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used rental search websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with property owners, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’ve unpacked and set up your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events is waiting for you – the only dilemma in London is deciding which activities to partake in and finding the time to enjoy them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, industry, and science. Surrounding it are fantastic museums, such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to explore, and some of them remain open late on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a mini rave with drinks and live performances!
In addition to visiting museums, I take pleasure in discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical landmarks and artistic initiatives, making it a delightful region to explore. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it now houses a Series B startup focused on creating temporary structures out of shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and features numerous art studios, alongside the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London has great deals if you know where to search, with many options for affordable yet delicious meals. During my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining locations featuring various promotions throughout the city, making eating out more budget-friendly.
One particular location is in South Kensington, where an excellent seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for just £1 each! It’s an incredible bargain, especially if you long for the flavors of home-cooked seafood and wish to indulge in oysters as much as you desire!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are substantial indoor street food markets providing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I highly recommend checking out the food markets in Tooting!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pace contributes to London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes excessively noisy, or the streets feel overcrowded. Luckily, London is well-connected to an excellent network of trains and buses, making it easy to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town located in southern England, rich in history and with many student-friendly areas. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, making for a delightful outing, especially during summer.
Overall, London is a dynamic city overflowing with chances and places to investigate, so take your time to uncover everything the city has in store during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.