Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and bustling metropolis offering a plethora of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration feels like an adventure! Yet, adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained while relocating to London as an international student, and a few suggestions on what to do once you are settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the perfect place to call your own. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion forums, I investigated various neighborhoods in London that would make for an enjoyable living experience. I came across the vibrant nightlife of Camden Town, Hackney’s up-and-coming scene, and the tranquil, green residential atmosphere of Putney.
Having toured London prior to commencing my Master’s, I visited these areas in person before determining where to relocate. I decided on Putney, and along with my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies), we turned to websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to discover affordable shared accommodations, arranged virtual viewings, and found a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you are settled, a universe of opportunities and events awaits you – the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to pursue and finding the time to partake in all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a locale honoring art, industry, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to visit, and some keep late hours on Fridays. The V&A hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a lively celebration with refreshments and live music!
Apart from museums, I relish exploring East London districts like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is steeped in history and artistic initiatives, making it a charming area to explore. My preferred location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on a former canning warehouse, now housing a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. It celebrates innovative manufacturing and features art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London has great deals if you know where to look, with numerous options for affordable yet delicious meals. During my time in London, I have compiled a list of eateries with special offers scattered throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One such location is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers presents an Oyster Happy Hour, charging only £1 per oyster! This is an incredible deal, especially if you’re longing for seafood from home and wish to savor oysters without stretching your budget!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its food culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets that showcase a wide range of cuisines. If you’re in search of meals that remind you of home, I strongly encourage you to check out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a break from the city
Although the city’s pace adds to its allure, at times the Tube can be too noisy, or the streets overly crowded. Luckily, London is positioned at the heart of a fantastic network of trains and coaches that facilitates easy getaways from the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations to visit include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is an exquisite medieval town in southern England, brimming with history and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a magnificent botanical garden in Wisley, making for a delightful day out, particularly in the summer.
In summary, London is a vibrant city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take the time to explore all it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.