Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the previous 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and thrilling of my existence.
London is a lively, multicultural, historic metropolis with a plethora of restaurants, events, and attractions – discovering it is always an adventure! However, adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Below are some insights I gained as an international student transitioning to London, along with advice on what to do once you’re settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London is identifying the ideal place to call home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I investigated different areas of London that could be enjoyable to reside in. I found Camden Town’s dynamic nightlife, Hackney’s burgeoning scene, and Putney’s tranquil, green residential atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to beginning my Master’s, I toured these neighborhoods in person before settling on Putney. My flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate years) and I used accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate economical house shares, set up online viewings, and ultimately discovered a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’re settled, a plethora of opportunities and events lies ahead – the challenge in London is deciding which activities to engage in and carving out the time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is positioned in the Albertopolis district, an area that celebrates art, industry, and science. Close by, you will find excellent museums like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic for exploration, with certain ones remaining open late on Fridays. On the final Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, transforming into a mini rave featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museums, I relish exploring East London areas such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This region is brimming with historical and artistic sites, making it a wonderful place to stroll and uncover hidden gems. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on an old canning warehouse, now housing a startup creating temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex champions creative manufacturing and hosts art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday worked!
Dining out in London
London presents numerous bargains if you know where to seek them, with countless options for affordable yet superb food. Throughout my stay in London, I have put together a list of eateries offering various deals across the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One notable establishment is located in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers provides an Oyster Happy Hour, featuring oysters for merely £1 each! It’s an excellent bargain, particularly if you’re longing for the flavors of home’s seafood and wish to treat yourself at a reasonable price!
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its food scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re after food that evokes memories of home, I highly suggest exploring Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
While the pace of London is part of its allure, there are times when the Tube becomes too loud, or the streets too crowded. Thankfully, London is central to an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it easy to flee the city for a weekend.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich with history and accommodating spots for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a substantial botanical garden in Wisley, ideal for a summer day outing.
In summary, London is a dynamic city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to explore all that it has to offer during your tenure at Imperial!
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.