Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to leave a rural island in Spain for Europe’s largest urban center was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most fulfilling and enjoyable of my existence.
London is a multicultural, diverse, historical, and lively metropolis with a vast selection of restaurants, events, and attractions – navigating it is perpetually an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can pose difficulties. Here are some insights I’ve gained while relocating to London as an international student, along with tips and recommendations for when you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is selecting the right place to call home. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I explored various neighborhoods in London that might be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts lively nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area of east London, and Putney is a serene, green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which allowed me to examine these neighborhoods firsthand before settling on a location. After opting for Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate economical house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve unpacked and personalized your new space, a world filled with opportunities and events awaits – the difficulty in London lies in deciding which activities to participate in and finding time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that celebrates art, manufacturing, 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 delightful for exploration, and some remain open late on Fridays. Every last Friday of the month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a small rave with drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I enjoy wandering around East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is dotted with historical gems and creative projects, making it a fantastic place to stroll and uncover new experiences. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – built on a former canning warehouse, it now houses a startup that constructs temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates innovative manufacturing and hosts various art studios, as well as the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London offers great deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for budget-friendly yet delightful food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries with various bargains across the city, ensuring dining out is more budget-conscious.
One of these places in South Kensington is Wright Brothers, which presents an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to savor oysters for merely £1 each! It’s an excellent deal, particularly if you’re craving the taste of home seafood and wish to indulge in oysters affordably.
Tooting in South London is also famed for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are substantial indoor street food markets showcasing a wide range of cuisines. If you’re seeking food reminiscent of home, I strongly recommend exploring Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a break from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, the streets too congested, and the crowds overwhelming. Luckily, London is surrounded by an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it simple to escape the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England brimming with history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
Overall, London is a lively city abundant in opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to discover everything it presents during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.