Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to leave a rural island in Spain for the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months in London have been the most rewarding and enjoyable of my existence.
London stands as a lively, multicultural, historic metropolis brimming with a plethora of dining options, events, and attractions—navigating it is always an experience! However, acclimating to life in a foreign nation can pose challenges. Here are some insights I gained as an international student relocating to London, along with suggestions and advice for adapting.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial task in moving to London is securing the ideal residence. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online discussion boards to investigate different areas in London that might be enjoyable for living. I learned about Camden Town’s vibrant nightlife, Hackney’s emerging culture in east London, and Putney’s tranquil, green neighborhood atmosphere.
Having visited London prior to commencing my Master’s, I had the chance to visit these neighborhoods firsthand before deciding on my living situation. I opted for Putney, and my flatmates (whom I met during undergraduate studies) and I employed accommodation platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares, organized online viewings with landlords, and eventually secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After settling in and furnishing your new space, a myriad of options and events beckons—the challenge in London lies in selecting which pursuits to engage in and carving out time for them all!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Close by, there are a number of excellent museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to visit, and some even extend their hours on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A organizes a V&A Late, transforming the museum into an energetic gathering with refreshments and live entertainment!
In addition to museum visits, I relish wandering through East London zones like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. The area boasts numerous historical and creative treasures, making it a delightful area to stroll and uncover. My favorite destination is Trinity Buoy Wharf—established on a former canning warehouse, it now houses a startup crafting temporary structures from shipping containers. The site celebrates innovative manufacturing and is home to various art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London features excellent dining deals if you know where to seek them. Throughout my stay here, I’ve created a list of eateries with diverse offers across the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One such location is in South Kensington, where an exceptional seafood restaurant named Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, with oysters priced at only £1 each! This is an incredible bargain, particularly if you’re longing for the taste of fresh seafood from home and wish to indulge in oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also celebrated for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food markets that present a broad array of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that evokes memories of home, I strongly suggest venturing into the Tooting food markets!
Taking a respite from the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, at times the Tube can be excessively loud, or the streets overly packed. Luckily, London is centrally located to a fantastic network of trains and coaches, simplifying weekend getaways from the city.
My preferred destinations include Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and accommodating to students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) features a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which offers a charming day trip, especially during the summer.
In summary, London is a dynamic city packed with opportunities and places to discover. Take your time to uncover everything this city has to offer throughout your stay at Imperial!
For more insights about my experiences, read my Imperial story.
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