Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most fulfilling and enjoyable of my existence.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and lively city offering a plethora of restaurants, events, and places to discover – each day is an adventure! However, adapting to a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with tips and advice for when you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London is selecting the right place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I explored various London neighborhoods that might be exciting to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts a lively nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney offers a peaceful, green residential environment.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s, which allowed me to personally explore these neighborhoods before finalizing my living arrangements. After opting for Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to seek affordable house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and secured a nice flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After unpacking and personalizing your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits – the real challenge in London lies in deciding which activities to engage in and making time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a district that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, you’ll find fantastic museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are excellent for exploration, and several 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 music!
In addition to museum visits, I love wandering through East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and the Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical and artistic spots, creating a fantastic environment for walking and discovering. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, located on a former canning warehouse site, now home to a startup that constructs temporary structures using shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and is home to art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents plenty of budget-friendly options if you know where to search, with numerous inexpensive yet high-quality food choices. Throughout my time in London, I’ve curated a list of dining spots featuring various deals throughout the city, making eating out more accessible.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, where a seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour, with each oyster priced at just £1! It’s a fantastic deal, especially if you long for the taste of seafood from home and wish to indulge in oysters without breaking the bank!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets presenting a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re on the lookout for food that evokes memories of home, I highly recommend exploring the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets too crowded, with people everywhere. Thankfully, London is centrally located within an extensive network of trains and coaches, simplifying the process of escaping the city for a weekend.
My favorite retreats are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, filled with historical sites and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a large botanical garden in Wisley, making for a delightful outing, especially in the summer.
Ultimately, London is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to uncover everything the city has to offer during your time at Imperial!
For more insights into my experiences, read my Imperial story.