Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Transitioning from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating, but the past 18 months spent in London have been exceptionally fulfilling and enjoyable.
London stands out as a lively, diverse city with a rich historical backdrop and a plethora of dining options, events, and attractions. Discovering the city is always an escapade, yet adapting to life in a foreign country can be tough. Here are some insights I gained as an international scholar in London, along with advice for acclimating.
Relocating to London as a graduate student
The initial step in relocating to London is securing a suitable residence. I leveraged Instagram, TikTok, and online communities to investigate various neighborhoods in London. Camden Town is recognized for its vibrant nightlife, Hackney is an emerging hotspot, and Putney is a serene, green residential area.
Having traveled to London prior to embarking on my Master’s, I visited these neighborhoods personally before selecting Putney. My flatmates, whom I met during my undergraduate studies, utilized platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate budget-friendly house shares. We coordinated online viewings with property owners and ultimately discovered a lovely flat close to Putney Heath.
Activities in London
After you’ve settled in and personalized your new space, London presents limitless possibilities and happenings. The difficulty lies in choosing which activities to engage in and carving out time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, celebrated for its emphasis on art, industry, and science. In the vicinity, you’ll encounter the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are fantastic to explore, with some remaining open late on Fridays. The V&A also hosts a V&A Late on the last Friday of each month, transforming the museum into a vibrant gathering with refreshments and live entertainment!
Apart from museums, I relish exploring East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. These areas are filled with historical landmarks and artistic initiatives, making them perfect for strolls and uncovering hidden treasures. My go-to spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on a former canning warehouse and now home to a startup that creates temporary installations from shipping containers. It serves as a center for creative manufacturing with art studios and the original lighthouse laboratory where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London boasts excellent food deals if you know where to search. I’ve put together a collection of budget-friendly eateries throughout the city.
One of these is Wright Brothers in South Kensington, featuring an Oyster Happy Hour offering oysters for only £1 each. It’s an amazing bargain, particularly if you’re longing for some seafood from back home!
Tooting in South London is renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are expansive indoor street food venues showcasing various cuisines. If you desire a taste of home, I definitely recommend checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Taking a timeout from the city
While London’s vibrant energy is part of its appeal, there are times when the Tube can be overly noisy or the streets excessively congested. Thankfully, London is well-serviced by trains and coaches, facilitating easy escapes from the city for a weekend retreat.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a charming medieval town with a rich historical backdrop and student-friendly locations. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society’s Wisley garden offers a lovely day trip, especially during summer.
In conclusion, London is a lively city brimming with countless opportunities and locations to discover. Take your time to uncover all that it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
For more insights into my journey, read my Imperial story.