Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was quite intimidating. Nevertheless, my 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is an energetic, multicultural, historic, and bustling metropolis, offering a vast array of dining options, events, and attractions – exploring it is truly a journey! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can prove to be tough. Here are some insights I gained during my transition to London as an international student, along with tips and advice for after you’ve settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London involves finding the ideal place to call home. I leveraged Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to research different neighborhoods in London that could be enjoyable to reside in. I learned that Camden Town boasts an energetic nightlife, Hackney is an up-and-coming area in east London, and Putney is a peaceful and green residential neighborhood.
I was lucky to visit London prior to starting my Master’s, which allowed me to check out these areas in person before making a living decision. After deciding on Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in and adorned your new home, a multitude of opportunities and events awaits – the challenge in London lies in determining which activities to pursue and finding time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a large district that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Several fantastic museums are in close proximity, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are great to visit, and some even keep late hours on Fridays. On the last Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, an open party transforming the museum into a lively rave with beverages and live performances!
Apart from museum visits, I take pleasure in discovering East London locales such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich with historical and artistic endeavors, making it an excellent place for strolling and uncovering unexpected sights. My preferred spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf – established on the site of an old canning warehouse, it now houses a startup that constructs temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and features multiple art studios, along with the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents great deals if you know where to search, with numerous options for tasty yet affordable meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of eateries featuring various promotions across the city, making dining out more economical.
One such venue is located in South Kensington, where a seafood establishment named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at just £1 each! This is a fantastic bargain, particularly if you long for the flavors of home seafood and want to enjoy oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse array of cuisines. If you’re seeking dishes that remind you of home, I highly encourage exploring the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s pace contributes to London’s appeal, there are times when the Tube becomes excessively loud, the streets overly hectic, and crowds omnipresent. Luckily, London is nestled within an excellent network of trains and coaches, allowing for easy escapes from the city for a weekend.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and accommodating for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts an expansive botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a delightful day out, particularly during the summer months.
Ultimately, London is a dynamic city brimming with possibilities and places to uncover, so take the time to explore everything the city offers during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, click here.