Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from a tranquil island in Spain to Europe’s largest metropolis felt overwhelming. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic metropolis featuring an array of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration is an adventure! However, acclimating to a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions on what to do once you’re all settled.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial step in moving to London involves locating the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to research different neighborhoods in London. I learned about Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s developing atmosphere, and Putney’s serene, green residential feel.
Having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally explored these areas before deciding on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, coordinated online viewings, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled, a plethora of opportunities and events beckons – the challenge lies in selecting which activities to engage in and finding the time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, known for its celebration of art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby attractions include the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum, all of which are delightful to explore, with some open late on Fridays. The V&A even hosts a V&A Late on the final Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a lively gathering with drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are steeped in history and artistic ventures, making them perfect for casual strolls. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on an old canning warehouse, now home to a startup constructing temporary structures from shipping containers. It serves as a creative manufacturing hub featuring art studios and the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London presents many bargains if you know where to look, with numerous options for affordable yet high-quality meals. I’ve curated a list of food establishments offering deals throughout the city, allowing dining out to be more budget-friendly.
One such place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour with oysters priced at just £1 each! It’s a fantastic offer, particularly if you’re craving the taste of familiar seafood.
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary culture. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food venues showcasing diverse cuisines. If you’re on the lookout for food reminiscent of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
Although the rhythm of city life in London contributes to its allure, there are times when the Tube gets too noisy, or the streets feel overcrowded. Thankfully, London is well-linked by trains and coaches, making weekend getaways easy.
My favorite destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town in southern England, abundant in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the RHS features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer day out.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to uncover all it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.