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 past year and a half in London has been the most rewarding and thrilling period of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and bustling city with a diverse 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 gained while moving to London as an international student, along with some advice and suggestions for your transition.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate scholar
The initial step in relocating to London is identifying the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online community boards to investigate various London neighborhoods that appeared appealing. I discovered Camden Town’s lively nightlife, Hackney’s up-and-coming scene, and Putney’s serene, green residential atmosphere.
Having previously visited London before starting my Master’s, I explored these areas firsthand before making my choice for Putney. My roommates (whom I met in undergrad) and I leveraged accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find affordable shared housing, arranged virtual viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After settling in and furnishing your new residence, a plethora of opportunities and events await – the real challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
The South Kensington Campus of Imperial is situated in the Albertopolis region, a district that celebrates art, commerce, and science. Nearby are amazing museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are excellent for exploration, with some staying open late on Fridays. Each last Friday of the month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a dynamic celebration with beverages and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I relish wandering through East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is replete with historical and artistic treasures, making it a delightful place to roam and uncover. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – built on the site of a former canning warehouse, it’s now home to a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The space champions creative manufacturing and houses several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents wonderful deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for tasty yet budget-friendly food. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining establishments with various promotions across the city, making eating out more affordable.
One notable spot is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, serving oysters for just £1 each! It’s an incredible bargain, particularly if you’re in the mood for seafood and wish to treat yourself without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a wide array of cuisines. If you’re longing for flavors reminiscent of home, I strongly recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While London’s vibrant atmosphere is part of its appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes too noisy, or the streets are overly congested. Thankfully, London boasts excellent train and coach connections, allowing for easy escapes from the city for weekends.
My favorite destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, rich in history with numerous student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a large botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer excursion.
Overall, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time delving into all that the city has to offer during your time at Imperial!
To learn more about my journey, check out my Imperial story.