Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The choice to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Despite this, the last 18 months I’ve spent in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my existence.
London is a dynamic, diverse, historic, and lively metropolis that boasts an array of eateries, events, and attractions – every exploration is a new adventure! However, adapting to life in a different country can pose its challenges. Here are some insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with helpful tips and advice for when you settle down.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London is choosing the ideal place to call home. Through Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I explored various neighborhoods in London that I thought would be enjoyable to live in. I found that Camden Town has a lively nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful, green residential locality.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which allowed me to personally scout these neighborhoods before making my housing decision. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve settled in and personalized your new home, a plethora of opportunities and events is at your fingertips – the real challenge in London lies in deciding which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by, you’ll discover fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are perfect for exploration, and some even remain open late on Fridays. Every last Friday of the month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into a compact rave complete with drinks and live music!
In addition to visiting museums, I relish navigating East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is rich with historical landmarks and artistic initiatives, making it a great area to stroll and uncover new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on the site of an old canning warehouse, it now houses a startup specializing in temporary structures made from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and features numerous art studios, in addition to the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London provides numerous bargains if you know where to search, with a plethora of options for affordable yet delicious cuisine. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries offering various promotions across the city, making dining out more within reach.
One particular place is located in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to savor oysters for merely £1 each! It’s an excellent deal, particularly if you’re yearning for the taste of seafood from home and wish to indulge in oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets serving a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re searching for food that evokes memories of home, I strongly suggest delving into the Tooting food markets!
Taking a breather from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes unbearably noisy, or the streets are inundated with throngs of people. Thankfully, London is centrally located within an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend getaway.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, brimming with history and student-friendly hangouts. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a delightful day out, particularly during the summer months.
All in all, London is a vibrant city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to explore everything it has to offer during your time at Imperial!