Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe felt overwhelming. However, the last 18 months in London have proven to be the most rewarding and thrilling period of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic metropolis boasting an array of restaurants, events, and attractions – every exploration is a new adventure! Nonetheless, adapting to life in a foreign country can present its hurdles. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student in London, along with suggestions for what to do once you get comfortable.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial task in moving to London is discovering the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate different areas of London. Camden Town is renowned for its nightlife, Hackney is a developing neighborhood in east London, and Putney is a tranquil, green residential area.
After having visited London prior to starting my Master’s, I personally explored these neighborhoods before opting for Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate studies) and I used accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to search for budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
Once you’ve gotten settled, a myriad of opportunities and events lies ahead – the real challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and allocating time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a locale that celebrates art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are excellent to explore, with some open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming the museum into a bustling event with drinks and live music!
Apart from museum visits, I delight in discovering East London neighborhoods such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in historical and artistic sites, making it an excellent place to stroll and uncover new things. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf – constructed on a former canning warehouse, it now accommodates a startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex honors creative manufacturing and includes several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London presents great deals if you know where to hunt, offering numerous options for affordable yet delicious meals. Throughout my time in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining establishments with deals that make eating out more wallet-friendly.
One such place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers hosts an Oyster Happy Hour featuring oysters for just £1 each! It’s an excellent bargain, particularly if you long for the taste of home seafood.
Tooting in South London is also well-known for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a variety of cuisines. If you seek food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
Although London’s urban life is part of its appeal, sometimes the Tube becomes excessively noisy or the streets feel too hectic. Luckily, London is well-connected by trains and coaches, making it straightforward to get away from the city for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a picturesque medieval town in southern England, rich in history and student-friendly venues. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer outing.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and locations to discover, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.