Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
The decision to relocate from the tranquil countryside of a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nonetheless, the last 18 months spent in London have proven to be the most satisfying and enjoyable period of my life.
London is a city rich in diversity, multiculturalism, history, and vibrancy, offering an extensive array of restaurants, events, and attractions—every exploration is an adventure! However, adapting to life in a new country can pose challenges. Here are some insights I’ve gained as an international student transitioning to London, along with recommendations and tips for settling down.
Transitioning to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in relocating to London involves finding the perfect place to call home. By utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online communities, I researched different neighborhoods in London that appeared enjoyable to live in. It became evident that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is an emerging area in east London, and Putney is a serene and green residential locale.
I was lucky enough to visit London before embarking on my Master’s studies, giving me the chance to explore these neighborhoods firsthand prior to making my relocation decision. After settling on Putney, my flatmates (whom I met during my undergraduate years) and I employed accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable shared housing, scheduled online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve unboxed and personalized your new abode, a plethora of opportunities and events awaits you—the challenge in London lies in selecting which activities to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis area, a vast district dedicated to art, manufacturing, and science. Nearby, there’s an impressive array of museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. Each of these museums is delightful to explore, with some even extending their hours on Friday nights. On the final Friday each month, the V&A hosts V&A Late, an open celebration where the museum transforms into an intimate rave featuring drinks and live music!
In addition to museum visits, I take pleasure in discovering East London areas such as Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is brimming with historical and artistic initiatives, making it an excellent location for walks and new discoveries. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf—constructed on an old canning warehouse, it now houses a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex celebrates creative manufacturing and includes numerous art studios, alongside the original lighthouse lab where the renowned English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London is filled with bargains if you know where to search, boasting many options for inexpensive yet fantastic food. Throughout my stay in London, I’ve compiled a list of dining spots featuring various deals throughout the city, making eating out more economical.
One notable place is located in South Kensington, where a fantastic seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to indulge in oysters for just £1 each! This is a superb deal, particularly if you’re yearning for the taste of home seafood and wish to enjoy oysters to your heart’s—and wallet’s—delight!
Tooting in South London is also famous for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are large indoor street food venues offering diverse culinary options. If you’re seeking food that brings back memories of home, I highly encourage you to visit the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s energy is part of London’s allure, there are times when the Tube becomes excessively noisy, or the streets are overcrowded with people. Fortunately, London lies at the center of an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it easy to get away 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 a large botanical garden in Wisley, which is a fantastic outing, especially during the summer.
All in all, London is a lively city bursting with opportunities and places to explore, so take your time to experience everything the city has in store while you’re at Imperial!
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